Built by Khmer King Suryavarman II in the first half of the 12th century, Angkor Wat was one of the most significant architectural achievements of ancient times, and remains the world’s largest religious monument today. The sprawling Cambodian temple complex is a source of national pride and international renown thanks to its distinctive sandstone spires, intricate artistry and massive moat that encloses the grounds in a three-and-a-half-mile perimeter. First dedicated to Vishnu as a Hindu temple and later a center of Theravada Buddhism, the well-preserved site is one of more than 1,000 temples in the Angkor area, many of which are easily accessible from nearby Siem Reap.
