Angkor Thom
Siem Reab [Siĕmréab]
Angkor Thom, also known as Nokor Thom, was established in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII as the enduring capital of the Khmer Empire. Spanning approximately 9 square kilometers, it incorporates earlier monuments such as the Baphuon temple and Phimeanakas palace. At its center lies the Bayon temple, renowned for its distinctive face-towers and intricate stone carvings, symbolizing Mount Meru surrounded by the city walls and moat. The city walls, each 3 kilometers long and 8 meters high, are flanked by a moat and feature gates aligned with cardinal points, including the famous Victory Gate. Angkor Thom reflects the Bayon architectural style, characterized by large-scale laterite constructions and naga-carrying giant figures. Once home to an estimated 80,000 to 150,000 inhabitants, the city was sacked by the Ayutthaya Kingdom, leading to its eventual abandonment before 1609. Today, Angkor Thom stands as a major Southeast Asian tourist attraction, offering a unique glimpse into Khmer history and culture through its monumental ruins and urban layout.
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Tip: The best time to visit Angkor Thom is early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Purchasing combined tickets for Angkor Archaeological Park in advance is recommended to save time. Visitors should wear comfortable footwear and be prepared for walking across uneven terrain. Guided tours can enrich the experience by explaining the historical and cultural significance of the temples. Discounts are often available for students and seniors. Arriving early helps in capturing the iconic sunrise views around the Bayon temple.
Interesting facts
- •Angkor Thom covers an area of about 9 square kilometers enclosed by massive laterite walls and a moat.
- •The Bayon temple at the city center is famous for its numerous stone faces carved on towers, representing Avalokiteshvara or the bodhisattva of compassion.
- •The city walls symbolize the mountains surrounding Mount Meru, the mythical center of the universe in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology.
- •Angkor Thom was once home to between 80,000 and 150,000 people, making it one of the largest cities of its time.
- •The Victory Gate is one of the five entrance gates and is located 500 meters north of the eastern gate, leading to the Victory Square and Royal Palace area.
History
Angkor Thom was founded in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII as the capital of the Khmer Empire, marking the height of Khmer architectural and urban planning achievements.
It overlapped with the earlier capital Yasodharapura, dating back three centuries.
The city flourished until the late 13th century, with the last temple, Mangalartha, dedicated in 1295.
Later, the city was sacked by the Ayutthaya Kingdom, which forced the Khmer rulers to relocate their capital to Phnom Penh.
By the early 17th century, Angkor Thom had been abandoned and described by early Western visitors as a lost city comparable to Atlantis.
Place Guide
Bayon Templelate 12th century
The central state temple of Angkor Thom, notable for its massive stone towers adorned with serene and smiling faces. It symbolizes the intersection of heaven and earth and is the architectural centerpiece of the city.
City Walls and Gateslate 12th century
The city is enclosed by massive laterite walls 8 meters high and 3 kilometers long on each side, with a surrounding moat. There are five gates aligned with the cardinal points, including the famous South Gate and Victory Gate.
Baphuon Templemid 11th century
An earlier state temple incorporated within Angkor Thom, originally built in the mid-11th century, known for its massive pyramid structure and intricate carvings.
Phimeanakas Palace10th century
A pyramid-shaped temple within the Royal Palace area, used for royal ceremonies and believed to be the king's private sanctuary.
Contact
Phone: 063 765 577
