As the 12th Century A.D. advanced. a change was in the air in what we call Southeast Asia: Buddhism was becoming a religious force in the region. As part of that change, Angkor Wat transitioned from being a Hindu Temple to a Theravada Buddhist Temple.
The inner courtyard of the main temple. The idea is that the temple was designed as an image of Mt. Meru, the home of the deities in Hinduism. The various buildings around represent the lesser mountains, the moats the oceans.
This is the original staircase that ascended to the top of the temple. At least one person on our tour had taken these steps 20 years ago.
Thankfully, there is a more modern option (with rails).
There are several inner courtyards on the top level. It is theorized these held water at one point.
Looks like an expansive place. Any idea how the change from Hinduism to Buddhism happened?
ReplyDeleteLeigh, it is monstrously huge and impressive in a way modern construction is not, if for no other reason that it was all done by essentially hand tools and human power.
DeleteThe transition to Buddhism seems to have been a peaceful one. It makes me think a bit of the rise of Christianity: adopting by the elites, it permeated the culture after a spell.
Amazing how desired stair rails become as we get older and our joints stiffer.
ReplyDeleteAgreed Ed. I was incredibly thankful for the rails - and do not let that picture fool you; it was still plenty steep.
DeleteReading up on this site the amount of fill and sandstone were breathtaking TB. Your photos emphasize the size of the place.
ReplyDeleteNylon12, it is the largest religious complex in the world. Words -and pictures - hardly do it justice.
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