Angkor Wat is a temple complex in Cambodia, located in the northern part of the country near the city of Siem Reap. It is one of the most iconic and well-preserved archaeological sites in Southeast Asia, representing the pinnacle of Khmer architecture and the cultural heritage of the Khmer Empire. Angkor Wat is not only a symbol of Cambodia but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant religious and cultural monument.

Key features and information about Angkor Wat:

1. Construction Period:
   • Angkor Wat was built in the 12th century during the reign of King Suryavarman II, who ruled the Khmer Empire from 1113 to 1150 CE. It was originally constructed as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu.
2. Architectural Style:
   • Angkor Wat is renowned for its classical Khmer architecture, characterized by intricate bas-reliefs, extensive galleries, and towering spires. The temple is designed to represent Mount Meru, the sacred mountain in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology.
3. Religious Significance:
   • Initially dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, Angkor Wat later transitioned to become a Buddhist temple. The site reflects the religious diversity of the Khmer Empire, which embraced both Hinduism and Buddhism.
4. Layout and Symbolism:
   • The temple complex is surrounded by a moat and covers a vast area. It consists of a central temple surrounded by galleries and courtyards. The main tower represents Mount Meru, and the entire layout is filled with symbolic references to Hindu and Buddhist cosmology.
5. Bas-Reliefs:
   • Angkor Wat is adorned with intricate bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu epics, including the Mahabharata and the Ramayana. The bas-reliefs cover the walls of the galleries and provide a narrative representation of mythological stories.
6. Central Sanctuary:
   • The central sanctuary of Angkor Wat houses a central tower that rises to a height of about 65 meters (213 feet). The sanctuary contains a series of galleries and chambers with religious and ceremonial significance.
7. Naga Causeway:
   • A long causeway leads to the entrance of Angkor Wat and is flanked by balustrades with intricate carvings of naga (serpent) figures. The causeway symbolically represents the churning of the ocean in Hindu mythology.
8. Towers and Galleries:
   • The temple complex features a series of towers and galleries with various levels, each serving a specific religious or ceremonial purpose. The uppermost level provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
9. Decline and Rediscovery:
   • After the decline of the Khmer Empire, Angkor Wat was gradually abandoned and covered by the surrounding jungle. It was rediscovered by the French explorer Henri Mouhot in the 19th century.
10. UNESCO World Heritage Site:
    • Angkor Wat, along with the entire Angkor Archaeological Park, was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992. The park encompasses numerous temples and structures from different periods of Khmer history.
11. Tourism:
    • Angkor Wat is a major tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors from around the world. It is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Asia and a testament to the artistic and engineering achievements of the Khmer civilization.
12. Conservation Efforts:
    • Ongoing efforts are made to conserve and preserve Angkor Wat, addressing issues such as structural stability, erosion, and the impact of tourism. Conservation projects aim to ensure the long-term sustainability of this cultural treasure.

Angkor Wat stands as a testament to the grandeur and cultural legacy of the Khmer Empire. Its intricate architecture, religious symbolism, and historical significance continue to make it a captivating destination for travelers and scholars alike.