Discover the Fascinating History of Angkor Wat One of the 7 Wonders of the World
Angkor Wat 7 Wonders of the World, Located in the heart of Cambodia, Angkor Wat is a magnificent temple complex that has stood the test of time and continues to amaze visitors from all over the world. As one of the seven wonders of the world, Angkor Wat holds a special place in our history and culture.
From its breathtaking architecture to its rich cultural significance, there is no doubt that this ancient wonder is truly a marvel to behold. In this blog post, we will take a deep dive into the fascinating history of Angkor Wat, uncovering its secrets and exploring its impact on our world today.
History of Angkor Wat 7 Wonders of the World
Built in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman II, Angkor Wat was originally intended as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu. However, it later transformed into a Buddhist temple during the reign of King Jayavarman VII. The name “Angkor Wat” means “City of Temples” in Khmer, which is the official language of Cambodia.
Rise of the Khmer Empire
To understand the significance of Angkor Wat, we must first delve into the history of the Khmer Empire. The empire was established in the 9th century and covered a vast area of Southeast Asia, including modern-day Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam. At its peak, the Khmer Empire was one of the most powerful and advanced civilizations in the world. The empire’s wealth and prosperity were largely due to its control over the trade routes that connected China to India and other parts of Asia. This allowed the Khmer Empire to flourish and build grand monuments such as Angkor Wat.
However, the empire faced numerous challenges, including invasions from neighboring kingdoms and internal conflicts. These factors, along with natural disasters such as droughts and floods, led to the eventual downfall of the Khmer Empire in the 15th century. As a result, the once-great kingdom fell into ruin and was reclaimed by the jungle, with Angkor Wat being one of the few structures that remained relatively intact.
Rediscovery and Restoration
For centuries, Angkor Wat remained hidden from the rest of the world, with only local villagers aware of its existence. It wasn’t until the late 19th century when French explorer Henri Mouhot stumbled upon the temple complex and brought it to the attention of the Western world. His writings and sketches sparked international interest in Angkor Wat, leading to more expeditions and studies of the site.
In the early 20th century, restoration efforts were initiated by the French government, and later by the Cambodian government, to preserve and protect the temple complex. This involved clearing away the dense vegetation and restoring damaged parts of the structure. Today, Angkor Wat is one of the most well-preserved ancient monuments in the world, thanks to these preservation efforts.
Facts about the Angkor Wat 7 Wonders of the World
Angkor Wat is not just any ordinary monument – it is one of the seven wonders of the world, making it a must-visit destination for travelers and history enthusiasts. Here are some interesting facts about the seven wonders of the world:
The Ancient Seven Wonders
The original seven wonders of the world were a list of man-made structures compiled by Greek historian Antipater of Sidon in 2nd century BC. These included the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, the Statue of Zeus at Olympia, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, the Colossus of Rhodes, and the Lighthouse of Alexandria. Unfortunately, only one of these wonders still exists today – the Great Pyramid of Giza.
The Modern Seven Wonders
In 2007, a new list of seven wonders was chosen through a global poll, with the aim of showcasing the most impressive structures built in the last 2,000 years. The Great Wall of China, Petra in Jordan, the Colosseum in Rome, the Taj Mahal in India, Christ the Redeemer in Brazil, Machu Picchu in Peru, and of course, Angkor Wat in Cambodia were voted as the new seven wonders of the world.
Significance of the Seven Wonders
The seven wonders of the world have captured the imaginations of people for centuries, with each structure being a testament to human ingenuity and skill. These wonders have stood the test of time, showcasing our ability to create extraordinary masterpieces that continue to inspire us today.
Exploring Angkor Wat’s Architecture
Angkor Wat is not just a single temple, but rather a vast complex of temples, shrines, and other structures spread over an area of approximately 400 square kilometers. The main temple, known as Angkor Wat, is a three-tiered pyramid structure surrounded by a moat and a series of galleries and courtyards. It is a prime example of classical Khmer architecture, incorporating intricate designs and carvings that depict Hindu and Buddhist mythology.
Symbolism in Angkor Wat’s Architecture
The temple’s layout and design are heavily influenced by religious and cosmological beliefs. The central tower, representing Mount Meru (the home of the gods in Hindu mythology), is surrounded by four smaller towers that symbolize the four corners of the earth. The moat surrounding the temple represents the ocean that surrounds Mount Meru. This symbolism can be seen throughout the temple complex, making it not just a physical structure but also a spiritual one.
Intricate Carvings and Bas-Reliefs
One of the most awe-inspiring features of Angkor Wat is its intricate carvings and bas-reliefs. These can be found on almost every surface of the temple, including walls, pillars, and lintels. The carvings depict scenes from Hindu and Buddhist mythology, as well as historical events and everyday life during the Khmer Empire. The level of detail and precision in these carvings is truly remarkable, and it is a testament to the skills and craftsmanship of the ancient Khmer people.
Influence of Different Architectural Styles
Although Angkor Wat is predominantly Hindu in design, it also incorporates elements of Buddhist architecture. This is due to the influence of King Jayavarman VII, who converted the temple into a Buddhist one during his reign. It is also believed that the temple’s design was influenced by South Indian architecture, as evident in the use of a gopura (entrance tower) and multiple galleries.
The Cultural Significance of Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat is not just a beautiful structure, but it also holds great cultural significance for the people of Cambodia and the world. Here are some ways in which this ancient wonder has impacted our culture:
National Symbol of Cambodia
Angkor Wat is a national symbol of Cambodia, appearing on the country’s flag and currency. It represents the pride and resilience of the Cambodian people, enduring centuries of war and destruction yet still standing tall as a symbol of their heritage and identity.
Religious Importance
Angkor Wat is a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists, with many ceremonies and rituals still being held at the temple complex. Every year, thousands of devotees make the pilgrimage to Angkor Wat to pay their respects and seek blessings from the deities worshipped there. This shows the enduring religious significance of this ancient monument.
Tourist Attraction
Angkor Wat is undoubtedly one of the most visited tourist attractions in Southeast Asia, attracting millions of visitors each year. Its majestic beauty and rich history continue to draw people from all over the world, making it an important destination for cultural tourism.
Comparing Angkor Wat to Other Wonders of the World
As one of the seven wonders of the world, Angkor Wat is often compared to other iconic structures that have stood the test of time. Here are some comparisons between Angkor Wat and other wonders of the world:
Great Pyramid of Giza
The Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt is the oldest and only remaining structure from the original list of seven wonders of the world. Both Angkor Wat and the Great Pyramid were built as religious monuments and are known for their intricate architectural designs.
Taj Mahal
Similar to Angkor Wat, the Taj Mahal in India is a testament to love and devotion. While Angkor Wat is a symbol of Khmer culture and religion, the Taj Mahal was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his third wife. Both structures are also famous for their elaborate carvings and design elements.
Machu Picchu
Located in the Andes Mountains of Peru, Machu Picchu is another wonder of the world that shares similarities with Angkor Wat. Both structures were abandoned and reclaimed by nature before being rediscovered by explorers in the 20th century. They also both showcase advanced engineering techniques and precise stonework.
Tips for Visiting Angkor Wat
If you’re planning on visiting Angkor Wat, here are some tips to make your trip more enjoyable:
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Angkor Wat is during the dry season, which runs from November to March. This time of year offers cooler weather and less chance of rain, making it ideal for exploring the temple complex.
Getting There
The nearest city to Angkor Wat is Siem Reap, which can be easily reached by air or road from major cities in Southeast Asia. Once in Siem Reap, you can hire a tuk-tuk or taxi to take you to the temple complex.
Dress Code
As Angkor Wat is a religious site, visitors are expected to dress appropriately. This means covering your shoulders and knees, as well as avoiding revealing clothing. Failure to adhere to the dress code may result in being denied entry to certain parts of the temple complex.
Guided Tours
While it is possible to explore Angkor Wat on your own, hiring a licensed tour guide can enhance your experience by providing historical and cultural context to the structures. Guided tours are also available in multiple languages to cater to visitors from all over the world.
Mystery and Legends Surrounding Angkor Wat
Like any ancient wonder, Angkor Wat has its fair share of mysteries and legends surrounding it. Here are a few interesting ones:
Lost City of Gold
According to local legends, there is a lost city of gold hidden beneath Angkor Wat. It is said that during a time of great famine, King Jayavarman II ordered his people to build a secret underground city filled with treasures and riches to protect them from invaders. However, the location of this city remains a mystery to this day.
Curse of the White Elephant
Another legend surrounding Angkor Wat is that of a curse placed on the temple by a white elephant. The story goes that while King Suryavarman II was scouting for a location to build the temple, he encountered a white elephant who led him to the spot where Angkor Wat now stands. However, some believe that the white elephant was actually an evil spirit trying to trick the king, and its curse caused the downfall of the Khmer Empire.
Hidden Treasure
Due to its vast size and intricate design, many believe that there are hidden treasures and secret passageways within Angkor Wat waiting to be discovered. Some explorers have claimed to have found hidden chambers and tunnels, but no significant discoveries have been made so far.
Preservation Efforts for Angkor Wat
Preserving Angkor Wat is an ongoing effort that requires the cooperation of various organizations and governments. Here are some initiatives that have been taken to protect this ancient wonder:
UNESCO World Heritage Site
In 1992, Angkor Wat was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its cultural and historical significance. This status ensures that the temple complex is protected and preserved for future generations.
Sustainable Tourism
With millions of visitors each year, sustainable tourism practices are essential in preserving Angkor Wat. The Cambodian government has implemented measures such as limiting the number of daily visitors and promoting eco-friendly practices to minimize the impact on the temple complex.
Restoration Projects
Regular restoration projects are carried out by the Cambodian government and other organizations to maintain the structural integrity of Angkor Wat. This includes clearing away vegetation, repairing damaged structures, and reinforcing weakened areas.
The Influence of Angkor Wat on Modern Culture
Despite being built over 900 years ago, Angkor Wat continues to inspire and influence modern culture. Here are some ways in which this ancient wonder has left its mark on our world today:
Art and Architecture
The intricate carvings and design elements of Angkor Wat have served as inspiration for art and architecture around the world. From buildings to paintings to fashion, the legacy of Angkor Wat can be seen in various forms of modern art.
Literature and Film
Angkor Wat has also been featured in many works of literature and film, further cementing its place in popular culture. One notable example is the movie “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider”, where Angelina Jolie’s character visits Angkor Wat in search of an ancient artifact.
National Pride
For the people of Cambodia, Angkor Wat is not just a tourist attraction, but a source of national pride. The temple complex represents their rich history and cultural heritage, and its image can be found on everything from t-shirts to souvenirs.
Controversies Surrounding the 7 Wonders of the World
While the seven wonders of the world are widely celebrated as marvels of human achievement, there have been controversies surrounding them as well. Here are some examples:
Inclusion and Exclusion
The selection process for the seven wonders of the world has been heavily criticized, with many arguing that certain structures were unfairly excluded or included in the list. For example, the exclusion of the Great Wall of China in the original list due to political reasons has been a topic of debate for centuries.
Destruction and Reconstruction
Some of the seven wonders of the world, including Angkor Wat, have been damaged or destroyed over time and have undergone restoration efforts. Critics argue that these structures may have lost their authenticity and should not be considered as true wonders of the world.
Commercialization
The commercialization of the seven wonders of the world has also been a point of contention. With millions of tourists flocking to these sites each year, some believe that they have become too touristy and lose their true essence.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Angkor Wat is not just a temple complex – it is a symbol of human ingenuity, resilience, and cultural significance. Its impressive architecture, rich history, and impact on our world today make it truly deserving of its status as one of the seven wonders of the world. As we continue to explore and learn more about this ancient wonder, it is important to remember the importance of preserving and protecting it for future generations. So if you ever have the chance to visit Angkor Wat, make sure to take in its beauty and appreciate the fascinating history behind it.
