Its image appeared on the flag of the Khmer
Rouge government, even as they sought to
destroy artistic traditions that began there. At
Cambodian New Year celebrations in
America, our dancers perform in front of a
replica of it. At home and abroad, we take
pride in this international treasure -- Angkor
Wat, the Temple ("Wat" means "temple") at
Angkor.
This great 12th century temple complex at Angkor is probably the largest
religious structure in the world. Surrounded by a vast moat, the walls of
the temple compound display thousands of feet of sculptural ornament. The
impeccable craftsmanship of the bas-relief images show us the elegance of
gesture and stateliness of dancers and musicians of the 12th century royal
court.
