Angkor: A Short History and What to See

Angkor is a huge archaeological complex in Cambodia, left over from the capital of the Khmer Empire. We tell how it appeared and what is worth seeing.

A Short History

• 9th century: Angkor becomes the center of the Khmer Empire
• 12th century: Angkor Wat, originally a Hindu temple, is built under Suryavarman II
• Late 12th - early 13th century: Angkor Thom and the Bayon temple are built under Jayavarman VII
• Late Middle Ages: the capital gradually moves away, and some buildings remain among the jungle
• 20th century: large-scale study and restoration work begins
• 1992: the complex is added to the UNESCO World Heritage list

What to See

• Angkor Wat: the best-known temple of the complex, especially popular at sunrise
• Bayon: a temple with stone faces on its towers in Angkor Thom
• Ta Prohm: a temple wrapped in the roots of huge trees

Important: tickets, opening hours and visiting rules change. Before the trip, check current information on official websites.

How to Visit

• The city of Siem Reap usually serves as the base for the trip
• Clothing should cover the shoulders and knees
• Morning and evening are better for walks, as it can be hot during the day
• Bring water, a hat and comfortable shoes

Bottom Line

Angkor is best seen unhurriedly, spreading the visit over several days. Choose the main temples, leave time to rest, and the impressions will be brighter.