While the mystery of the smiling face-towers continue to perplex scholars and visitors, it is agreed that the Bayon Temple was intended to represent Mt. Meru on Earth.
Cambodia
Angkor Thom is an urban planning marvel and the name of one of the most impressive royal cities of Angkor Period Cambodia.
Angkor Thom, The Great City
This image is of the major Hindu deity Shiva, who can be identified by the third eye in his forehead.
Figure of Shiva, Khmer Empire
In the 1970s, thieves defaced the temples at Koh Ker. Numerous stone figures lost their feet—and their meaning.
The Looting of Cambodian Antiquities
When conflict erupts in an archaeologically rich country, illegal antiquities flood the market. What can be done?
The Scourge of Looting: Trafficking Antiquities, from ...
What happens when an auction house knowingly lists looted art? Government intervention and a lawsuit halt the sale.
Sotheby’s Returns Looted 10th Century Statue to ...
This temple remains the largest religious monument in the world. Once a Hindu shrine, it is now used by Buddhists.
Browse Smarthistory images for teaching & learning!
