via The Star, 29 January 2024: The Khmer Empire, flourishing from the 9th to the 15th centuries, once dominated Southeast Asia, leaving behind architectural marvels like Angkor Wat. This article highlights some of the major Angkorian sites which can be found not only in Cambodia, but in neighbouring Thailand and Laos as well.
The Khmer Empire was one of the most powerful in the region from the ninth to early 15th centuries. At its peak, it extended over much of what is now Thailand, Cambodia, Laos (Lao PDR), and southern Vietnam.
There are now numerous sites in these countries where budding Indiana Jones archaeologists can admire the architectural masterpieces of the former empire. This legacy of well-preserved archaeological sites and others in ruin still attract millions of curious tourists annually.
Its demise has baffled archaeologists, as it is difficult for them to fathom how a vast city centred on Angkor Wat (located in Siem Reap, Cambodia) could have declined in power. It is worth noting that, at its peak, Angkor supported more people than London did at the time.
Unesco World Heritage Sites now protect several Khmer sites across the region, while others are being considered for placement on the prestigious list. Their recognition helps preserve the sites, and each one makes a valuable contribution to tourism. Angkor was developed principally because the Khmer people were able to harness water from the Kulim Mountains and Tonle Sap in order to irrigate crops and sustain life. A complex system of canals and reservoirs, called barays, flowed through the temples and the surrounding agricultural land.
Source: What once was: Tracing the ancient Empire of the Khmers
