For those who don’t know, Angkor Wat holds the Guinness World Record for being the largest religious structure in the world! In a recent update, Angkor Wat became the eighth wonder of the world. This is one of those places in the world that needs no introduction. Located in Cambodia, it is one of the most visited attractions in the world.
s beaten Italy’s Pompeii to become the eighth wonder of the world. This achievement is much more significant compared to the large influx of tourists that Pompeii experiences every year.
For those who don’t know, the Eighth Wonder of the World is an unofficial name given to, among other things, new buildings or projects or designs. The place was replaced by Pompeii, Italy.
About Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat is a huge temple complex and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This place is the largest religious monument in the world, attracting thousands of visitors from all over the world every year. Originally built as a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it later became the main temple of Buddhism. Angkor is also famous for its statue of the eight-armed Vishnu, who is also revered by the locals as their guardian deity.
History
Built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II, Angkor Wat was originally dedicated to the Hindu deity Vishnu. However, over time it was transformed into a Buddhist temple. The transition from Hinduism to Buddhism is evident in the intricate carvings that adorn the walls of the temple and depict scenes from Hindu and Buddhist mythology.
An Architectural Marvel
What makes Angkor Wat the eighth wonder of the world is its architectural brilliance. The temple is spread over an area of ​​approximately 500 acres and a massive moat surrounds its outer walls. A marvel of symmetry and precision, the central temple complex features five lotus towers that represent Mount Meru, the mythical seat of the gods in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology.
The intricate bas-reliefs that adorn the walls of Angkor Wat are like an ancient visual encyclopedia, depicting scenes from Hindu epics, historical events, and everyday Khmer life. The level of detail in these carvings is awe-inspiring and shows the skill and craftsmanship of the craftsmen who worked on this colossal project.
Sunrise at Angkor Wat
One of the most iconic experiences at Angkor Wat is watching the sunrise over its majestic towers. As dawn breaks, the temple is drenched in shades of pink, orange and gold, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Apart from its architectural splendor, Angkor Wat has immense cultural and spiritual significance.