Heaven on Earth

Heaven on Earth

Angkor Wat, “temple that is a city,” a perfect fusion of creative desires and spiritual

dedication. The temple is known to be the heart and soul of Cambodia, being the epicentre of Khmer

civilization. An extraordinary structure from its size, scale, symmetry built out of high ambitions and

insecurities. Known as one of the most historical and symbolical temples of the world, starting from

geographical location to every detail carved on its stones and walls.

King Suryavarman II,” “Shield of the Sun”, the founder of Angkor Wat. Known to be a muscular

powerful military leader and a demi-god. Motivated to build the temple by his own insecurity caused

by the way he seized his kingdom. Dharanindravarman I, the great uncle of King Suryavarman II, was

the former ruler of the Khemr civilization. King Suryyavarman II, was just a 14 year old boy, out of

extreme ambition of power, Suryavarman II plotted to slaughter his great uncle as they were travelling

with his army. Suryavarman II and his fellowmen ambushed his uncle's army. In the same event,

Suryavarman II was triumphant as he slayed his great uncle with his sword.

Having seized the throne, Suryavarman immidiately sets out to make a mark on his empire.

His empire known as “gigantic and sophisticated”. Despite of his success as a ruler, Suryavarman was

known to be a usurper king, who seize the throne by murder. He established his name as a god-king in

the eyes of his people. Suryavarman also had a strong spiritual devotion, thus, he built the temple

Angkor Wat. He venerated the God Vishnu, depicted as a protector. Suryavarman wanted to build a

temple that would last for eternity