Bayon Temple, Siem Reap (must see)
Bayon Temple is an iconic and intricately adorned Khmer temple. Constructed in the late 12th century or early 13th century, it served as the official state temple of King Jayavarman VII, a devout Mahayana Buddhist ruler, and was situated at the heart of his capital city, Angkor Thom. Over the centuries, the temple underwent modifications and additions by later Hindu and Theravada Buddhist kings, reflecting their religious inclinations.
The Bayon Temple is renowned for its most distinctive and captivating feature - the multitude of serene and massive stone faces adorning the numerous towers that rise from the upper terrace and cluster around its central peak. These enigmatic faces, believed to represent Avalokiteshvara or Jayavarman VII himself, exude an aura of calm and enigmatic power, adding to the temple's mystique and allure.
Beyond its iconic faces, the Bayon boasts two remarkable sets of bas-reliefs. These intricate carvings offer a unique combination of mythological, historical, and everyday scenes, providing valuable insights into the culture, history, and religious beliefs of the Khmer civilization.
The temple's architecture is a striking representation of the baroque style of Khmer architecture, setting it apart from the classical style of its neighboring temple, Angkor Wat. The Bayon's layout, with its maze of towers and intricate carvings, creates a mesmerizing visual spectacle that leaves visitors in awe of its grandeur and intricacy.
Over the years, the temple has undergone extensive restoration efforts to preserve its rich heritage. The Japanese Government team for the Safeguarding of Angkor (the JSA) has been actively involved in the conservation and restoration of this architectural marvel, ensuring that its splendor continues to be appreciated by generations to come.
The Bayon Temple is renowned for its most distinctive and captivating feature - the multitude of serene and massive stone faces adorning the numerous towers that rise from the upper terrace and cluster around its central peak. These enigmatic faces, believed to represent Avalokiteshvara or Jayavarman VII himself, exude an aura of calm and enigmatic power, adding to the temple's mystique and allure.
Beyond its iconic faces, the Bayon boasts two remarkable sets of bas-reliefs. These intricate carvings offer a unique combination of mythological, historical, and everyday scenes, providing valuable insights into the culture, history, and religious beliefs of the Khmer civilization.
The temple's architecture is a striking representation of the baroque style of Khmer architecture, setting it apart from the classical style of its neighboring temple, Angkor Wat. The Bayon's layout, with its maze of towers and intricate carvings, creates a mesmerizing visual spectacle that leaves visitors in awe of its grandeur and intricacy.
Over the years, the temple has undergone extensive restoration efforts to preserve its rich heritage. The Japanese Government team for the Safeguarding of Angkor (the JSA) has been actively involved in the conservation and restoration of this architectural marvel, ensuring that its splendor continues to be appreciated by generations to come.
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Bayon Temple on Map
Sight Name: Bayon Temple
Sight Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia (See walking tours in Siem Reap)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia (See walking tours in Siem Reap)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Siem Reap, Cambodia
Create Your Own Walk in Siem Reap
Creating your own self-guided walk in Siem Reap is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Angkor Thom Walking Tour
Nestled within the sprawling landscape of Siem Reap, Angkor Thom stands as a remarkable feat of ancient engineering and artistic expression. Built during the late 12th century by the Khmer King Jayavarman VII, this expansive city served as the capital of the Khmer Empire. Jayavarman VII's vision was to create a city that embodied the spiritual and cultural essence of the empire. Enclosed... view more
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.8 Km or 3 Miles
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.8 Km or 3 Miles
Siem Reap Introduction Walking Tour
As the gateway to the magnificent Angkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap holds within its bounds an extraordinary blend of ancient temples, bustling markets, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Siem Reap's history dates back to the 9th century when it emerged as a small village near the Siem Reap River. Its name, meaning "Defeat of Siam," pays homage to a victorious battle fought against... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Siem Reap's history dates back to the 9th century when it emerged as a small village near the Siem Reap River. Its name, meaning "Defeat of Siam," pays homage to a victorious battle fought against... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles