Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is the biggest religious building in the world. It was built in Cambodia almost 900 years ago. The Khmer people made it out of sandstone blocks. It has tall towers, long halls, and carvings of gods and battles. It is a special place in the country's history.

A Temple City

Angkor Wat was built by a king named Suryavarman II. It was first a Hindu temple for the god Vishnu. Later, it became a Buddhist temple. A big moat full of water goes all the way around it. Millions of stones were used to build it.

The huge stone temple of Angkor Wat rises above the jungle.
The huge stone temple of Angkor Wat rises above the jungle. (Wikimedia Commons)

Still Standing Today

The jungle slowly grew around Angkor Wat over time. Trees and vines covered the walls. People still came to pray there, so it was never fully lost. Workers now help clean and protect the temple. It is one of the most famous places in Asia.

Fun Facts

  • Angkor Wat is so important it is on Cambodia's flag.
  • The temple has more than 3,000 carvings of dancing women.
  • It took about 30 years to build the temple.

Did You Know?

Angkor Wat faces west, which is unusual for Khmer temples and may have a special meaning.