The Cambodian city of Siem Reap is home to Angkor Wat, our planet's largest religious monument. However, are you aware that another fortified complex of temple ruins also exists in the neighborhood? Meet Angkor Thom with the majestic Bayon Temple nestled at its core!
Created by STORIES OF ERNE™ on March 5, 2023
Encountering the Stone Towers of Smiling Faces
After a fresh exit from the world-renowned temple of Angkor Wat (this was my first priority!), the tour guide and I together with our trusty Tuk-Tuk, immediately proceeded to our next destination. Tall trees, thick vegetation, dilapidated stone structures, and dusty roads greeted us on the way there. Being in an unknown location, it was like plunging deeper into a wormhole that transported us back in time!
As we journeyed through the dense jungle, noisy motorcycle engines of other Tuk-Tuks nearby roared wildly. I considered my ride to be an adventure in itself because it had never occurred to me that I'd be wandering solo in a foreign country - exploring its local architectural relics.
Nevertheless, the ecstatic chatters of other foreign commuters traversing in identical motorized vehicles, plus those who seemed to be also exploring similar temple ruins, helped to calm me down, not worrying about the eminent risks involved in traveling alone.
Exploring a Sacred Site of Khmer Architecture
"We have arrived Sir," my travel guide suddenly announced as he pointed towards the historic landmark. And there it was resting in its glorious splendor against the natural backdrop of slightly cloudy blue skies and green foliage.
"Isn't it gorgeous?" I answered him. This was the breathtaking exterior façade of the Bayon Temple immortalized by my camera as my panoramic visual:
Though I was wearing sunglasses, the intense glare from the scorching rays of the midday sun nearly pierced my eyes. As I walked towards my second Khmer temple to be probed, my feet were also restless hurrying up to get to the site's entrance. Upon entering the vicinity, my eyes stumbled upon some information boards that looked interesting. They were actually highlighting facts about the temple's restoration project plus some historical data.
Contrary to Angkor Wat's incredibly enormous footprint, the Bayon Temple's spatial layout was surprisingly smaller in scope. From a distance, I couldn't decipher its actual architecture since there were several missing pieces on the design puzzle.
Only remnants of sandstone and laterite were obvious without traces of other probable building materials like wood and metal which must have already disappeared - thanks to the ravages of time.
Yet, from an Architect's perspective , I'd visualize the entire landmark to be mimicking a little mountain with cascading towers overlooking this ancient civilization. I might be mistaken in my approach, but that was how I imagined it to be. Moreover, if there was one striking feature of the Bayon Temple that I couldn't ignore, it would be the distinctive smiling faces embossed on all its prominent pillars. And their bulging eyes appeared to be fixated on me! Isn't that hair-raising?
As I moved inside the complex, I couldn't help but notice the decaying elements of the temple ruins as they succumbed to the forces of nature. As I've mentioned, there were barely other building materials left on the premises, only the surviving legacy of stones serving as long-lasting testaments against centuries of cruel weather conditions. If so, does this prove the timeless quality of sandstone and laterite? You bet!
As I walked deeper into the inner realms, I became more conscious of my movements since, apart from the other visitors nearby, there were other pairs of eyes glancing down at me. And despite their stony appearances, these towering columns of smiling faces resembled human titans that were about to pick me up with their mammoth hands. Would you experience a similar sensation if you were in their midst? Have a look at the following images. Would you run for your life if these majestic giants suddenly awakened and said "Hello" to you? I would, that's for sure!
In fact, I simply don't know the real purpose of the human faces on these temple towers. As there's a lot of controversy and debate trying to figure out their ultimate significance, perhaps a slight personal assumption wouldn't hurt. I have the impression that these smiling faces were constructed to depict God-like encounters to believers. And because they were crafted within holy sites like the Bayon Temple, these massively elaborate sculptures had the tendency to portray authority, royalty, sovereignty, and divinity. What's your opinion?
My neck stiffened after departing the temple area where most of the face-towers were located. Well, that was a natural reaction since I was looking up most of the time. You'd probably feel the same way too. Nevertheless, it was one of the most magical experiences I had within that temple ruin. Afterwards, I didn't waste the opportunity to relax for a bit outside the temple's perimeters and breathe some fresh air.
Hold on, there's more!
Apart from the spectacular pillars, there was another crucial aspect of the Bayon Temple's architecture that deserved our attention. These were the stone artworks, sculptural galleries, and bas-reliefs that adorned them! As meticulously beautiful, ornate, and decorative as they were, I was immediately drawn to them for a closer peek. You won't believe the exquisite intricacy of these masterpieces! There were various scenes depicting interesting stories about local Khmer culture and traditions, historical events of warfare, royal lifestyles, including typical activities during the Angkor era as a whole.
I remembered spending a huge amount of time there, admiring all the narrative carvings plus the superior skills of the craftsmen, sculptors, and artisans who painstakingly devoted their creative energies for the fruition of these incredible marvels. Aren't they exceptionally impressive?
Unveiling Angkor Thom's Temple Ruins continues…
Did you have fun? How was my architectural expedition? Were there temple details that caught your attention and aroused your curiosity?
The Bayon Temple is merely the first major landmark for our historic journey inside the royal city of Angkor Thom. Within the vast grounds of this gated complex, there are more iconic ruins with equally fabulous characteristics that we will be covering in future publications of Architecture Moments™. Until then, stay tuned!
If you're interested, you can experience my architectural explorations of Angkor Wat here.
#Hive, let's share our interesting conversations about the Bayon Temple. See you in the comments below.
IT IS IN THE ENJOYMENT OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT'S VALUABLE WEALTH OF HUMAN LIFE EXPERIENCES THAT ARCHITECTURE BECOMES TRULY SIGNIFICANT. storiesoferne
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Greetings @storiesoferne, a great tour of the Angkor temple, the pictures are spectacular, the sculptures of the smiling faces are a little scary; I love to explore and observe carefully. In this place I take it very calmly hahaha the statues seem to come to life and go out to chase the visitors, if I were there I would run very fast I think the statues do not reach me and I do not say that as a joke, when it comes to saving your life the forces and adrenaline do their best work, if I have the opportunity to visit this place, I observe in detail the writing, it must have a great story to tell.
My favorite part is the entrance of the temple contrasts perfectly with the environment, I think that the origin of the smiling faces is closely linked to the gods of the primitive tribes that inhabited this area, it is admirable the work they did to build these statues with stones, if they knew how to do their job.
The motorcycles are curious,do they rent them to tourists,how long is the ride to the temple,thanks for sharing your adventure in this striking and mysterious temple.
Blessings!
Thanks a lot dear @belkyscabrera for consistently following my exciting adventures around the world! Whether they're about travel, history, culture, and most especially, architecture, there's a strong sense of accomplishment for immersing in these incredible experiences. 👍
Precisely, the smiling face-towers of Bayon Temple are what made this heritage site enigmatic. Since we don't have enough historical data to explain their symbolisms, meanings and implications, we can only theorize. And your smart speculation about them being gods of primitive tribes could most likely be one probable explanation. If you had the chance to be in their actual presence, it would pretty much have felt that way too. So why not travel to Siem Reap for a first-hand personal encounter, right? 😁
The motorcycles with attached carriages are locally known as Tuk-Tuks in Cambodia. These modes of public transportation are quite popular in Asia as their fares are reasonably priced and are practical means for commuters to traverse the host location. Apart from their roles for local commutes, these units are also available for rent. And this was exactly what I did during my adventures there. Truly grateful for your sincere interest and valuable time in digesting my content. Have an enjoyable one. More blessings! 😊
Visiting the temple and seeing first hand the smiling statues would be a great adventure with a bit of mystery, the motorcycle ride I imagine must be spectacular, the fact that the cabin has no side glass allows a wide view of the landscape and to observe the vegetation and the environment while you head to the temple, certainly the perfect place for adventurers and travel lovers @storiesoferne.
Happy weekend with your family!
Absolutely dear @belkyscabrera. The temple ruins of Siem Reap is without a doubt an ideal environment for adventurers! Blessings! 😊🙏
It is such a magical experience, being in these ruins, it will always be a mystery to me how they built these wonders. Surely, my neck would also be stiff from looking everywhere, so as not to miss details, but I also imagine my heart all excited by the experience. I'm glad you lived something like this and shared it with us.
Definitely @doriangel. It would be an extraordinary experience indeed if you could visit these Cambodian temple ruins in person and investigate their construction methods. With our professional backgrounds in architecture and civil engineering, we would surely stand in awe amidst these incredible feats, scratching our heads in wonder. I'm glad my publication has resonated with you and thank you for your time in digesting it. Happy weekend, more blessings! 👍😊
Angkor Wat, similar to the footprint of Ayutthaya - Thailand. I've always loved historical relics like this.
I was amazed, architecture as beautiful as this was made by ancient people, they had better taste than today's people. How cool they can make carvings and sturdy buildings, to this day the buildings still stand tall and are enjoyed by many people.
Indeed @aswita. For some spectacular ruins, we can only wonder in awe on how our ancient ancestors built their civilizations, even speculating that they were assisted by aliens, lol. 🤣
On the other hand, Angkor Wat and the rest of the temples in the archaeological sites of Siem Reap were in fact products of ingenious human architecture and engineering at a time when construction technologies were limited. My deepest respects and congratulations to the brains, bodies, and hands responsible for these sacred masterpieces! 😊👍
I also thought the same, but apparently there are many things that we did not know in the past. For example, I recently learned that there are some temples made of dried mud that looks like a large carved rock. It seems we have a lot to learn from our ancestors about design and architecture :D
Exactly @aswita. There are still multitudes of mysteries shrouding our ancient architecture. As you mentioned, even their primitive building materials continue to astonish us, seemingly defying the laws of nature by playing tricks on our senses and perceptions. 😊
What a wonderful place. I have been amazed. What country is the temple in? It is amazing how stone structures endure through the years. The images of faces carved into the rock are a little creepy. Could they be gods? I really liked the writing and everything you tell.
Certainly, these temple ruins are truly wonderful, astonishing, and enigmatic at some point since some of them lack historical facts. These iconic landmarks are situated in Cambodia, a country that's basically sandwiched between Thailand and Vietnam. 👍
The primary stones used as building materials were sandstone and laterite. Although there were clear signs of wear and tear at the site, these natural elements have proven themselves to be highly reliable after surviving centuries of existence in these architectural relics. As for the origins and symbolisms of the smiling stone faces, no one knows so far. They might depict gods or were also said to represent the Khmer kings. But until real evidence has been found to support these claims, we can only speculate. 😊
What about Cuba @jordy0827? Does your homeland have temple ruins too?
I did not know about this temple. As far as I know there are no temples here. So I guess there are no ruins either.
Oh I see. Isn't that surprising? I've always assumed that nations would have at least a few traces of temple ruins or other religious sites with dilapidated states. But I guess it doesn't apply in your part of the world. Interesting! 😊
I'm not saying no, in my part of the world there may be, and the one who doesn't know is me. I'm going to find out more and let you know. And what is your part of the world?
No worries. Your exciting adventure in hunting down these Cuban temple relics has now begun, lol. 🤣 The Southeast Asian nation of the Philippines is my homeland, and we do have several church ruins, especially those historic landmarks of Spanish colonial origins. As a culture, we also share several similarities quite common with South American countries under previous Spanish influences. A few of them include cuisine, habits, and language. That's why Cuba resonates with me. 😊👍
Well, we do have ruins, the old ones because some of them are from the present jeje. But not ruins of temples, instead we have ruins of sugar mills, coffee plantations, parks...
What an incredible place! That wall depicting wartime stories was my favourite. I can see some resemblance to my culture as well. Using Elephants in battles was a sick move. I have heard that in those times, the fleet of war elephants would terrify the enemy to a great extent. I am digressing. Sorry!
I would love to go and take a closer look at all the carvings. This would have been a magnificent structure in its time. Mad respect for those sculptures and architects. Thanks, @storiesoferne for the virtual tour. 💙
Hello @pravesh0. Certainly, the remarkable bas-reliefs, engravings, and carvings of the Bayon temple have become more interesting due to their narrative presentation. You won't believe the staggering amount of sculptural details the Khmer craftsmen have dedicated to producing these astonishing visual galleries. Yes, these majestic elephants were known to be machines of warfare during the ancient times, and their popularity during strategic battles must have spread to neighboring Asian countries. Thus we witness their legendary depictions across related cultures. 👍
Though your country of India is also home to lots of incredible historic temples, I definitely encourage you to visit Cambodia for a different kind of architecture experience. Thanks a lot for being here! 😊
I've always wanted to visit this temple. In fact, I did have a plan visit it right before moving to New Zealand. Unfortunately, the weather wasn't great at that time so I had to change my plan. So really glad to read your article about it. I love the smiling faces on the temples though. Very different with our temples and pagodas in Vietnam where you don't see many smiling faces like that. There is only one buddha but I can't remember his name. Always feel pleasant looking at him rather than other serious faces.
Oh and the carvings on the walls look incredile, same to you I would spend quite a lot of time just to admire the artwork, imagining how much effort and talent had put into it.
Hello Dora. Wonderful to see you! I'd imagine your enthusiasm and excitement in traveling to these iconic temples in Siem Reap as they're essentially located right next to your homeland of Vietnam. And though Vietnamese temples are significantly different from the Khmer monuments, they're still worthwhile to appreciate and promote for global tourism. In a way, they shine as well with their own allure! 👍
And since these Cambodian religious structures have become world-famous, they're one of the hottest attractions that any architectural enthusiast and budding explorer would desire to visit. Hopefully, the weather will be more friendly on your future travel itineraries. Thank you for your time and interest! 😊
Thanks Erne. Yes that's what my husband told me as well when we were in Vietnam. It is quite a fascinating experience for him as he hadn't visited many Buddhist and Taoism temples before.
Have a lovely day, Erne.
Indeed, both of you will surely be ecstatic with the thrilling adventures found in Siem Reap's temple ruins. Have a fabulous week Dora! 😊👍
An amazing place, those smiling stone faces that seem to be watching scare anyone, very impressive, but another work that caught my attention are the carvings on the walls, Spectacular.
Definitely @lileisabel. The smiling faces on the pillars and the narrative galleries are the 2 most incredible features of this temple ruin. As intriguing and fascinating as they were, they have transformed into legendary icons in their own right. Much appreciated!.👍😊
I'm a little scared but my curiosity and traveling spirit I want to fly there and see this temple in person @storiesoferne
That's true @maytom. Explorations of temple ruins involve risks as they aren't walks in the park. These activities could possibly evoke fear since they challenge your comfort zone. That was exactly how I felt because I was traveling to Cambodia as a solo backpacker. Yet, it turned out to be a worthwhile experience in the end. So, anyone can do it too if they have the guts and determination. I know you can! 😊👍
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Historical places always of interest, we learn from the wall carvings of a time people walked the earth long before we arrived.
Detail inscribed onto stone masonry, living detail of life at the time. Eyes watching you most probably protectors of the site.
Wonderful visit seeing architecture, design, life now slowly slipping back into nature.
@tipu curate
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Well said @joanstewart. Indeed, historic architecture like these temple ruins will always be windows to the past as they reveal important clues on how our ancient ancestors existed with their respective built environments. I agree, the watchful eyes of the human faces on the Bayon Temple's towers, though intimidating for some, are strong reminders of the presence of higher powers that safeguard their faithful. 👍
Truly grateful for your kindness, much appreciated! 😊
My neighbours had the good fortune of visiting this region, one twin actually lived in Cambodia for a year. Attracted to ancient ruins the twins managed to travel to Easter Island and Inca ruins. Would be far too expensive from our part of the world to do this now.
Always appreciate historical places!
Oh wow! I'm glad your neighbors invested precious time, energy, and financial resources for these kinds of expeditions that explore ancient ruins such as Easter Island and the Inca sites. Despite being expensive ventures, these travel experiences are priceless and worthwhile at the end of the day! 👍 And I agree, historical landmarks will always nourish our souls. Have an awesome one! 😊
Both do art, one oil paintings the other ink, teachers by profession, neither married, have spent time getting to some very unusual places between 2000 and 2015. Seeing their work after travels, hearing the stories extremely interesting.
Fascinating! 👍 Wish I also had neighbors like them. If only I could join them in their adventurous quests around the world, that would definitely be one incredibly fulfilling life. Kindly extend my warmest regards to those fabulous artists. They deserve a great pat on the back! 😊
Remote places most definitely not easy to access, great adventures filled with historical stories which they photographed, painted some later.
One painting in superb detail was of Petra in Jordan, they enjoyed North Africa as well. Pyramids, Giza, Egypt they were a little disappointed with being too close to civilization, although they enjoyed the exceptionally large Egyptian market that would have scared me to death.
Currently teaching here in South Africa for the past 10+ years have visited remote places locally, not sure if they planning more I will ask !LOLZ Amazing what you are able to accomplish with a twin brother, similar interests, never married 🙂
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Appreciate this wonderful update @hivebuzz. Cheers! 👍
You're welcome @storiesoferne! Have a nice day 😊👍
I celebrated my 30th birthday in Siem Reap and visited Angkor Wat. We went there early to see the sunrise. It was awesome.
Wow! That's great to know @itravelrox. I'm truly glad we can both relate with our adventures in Angkor Wat, Siem Reap's temple ruins, plus other memorable escapades. Cheers! 😊
Literally went on a temple hopping from Myanmar to Thailand to Cambodia. It was fun and tiring. Hehe!
Good for you! May your thrilling adventures and experiences around the world continue for as long as it takes. 👍
Thank you. More adventure with the fam. :)
Hey dearest Erne @storiesoferne Finding your publication on Angkor wat seems amazing, Your experiences seems very pure and fulfilling. I have heard somewhere that it was a Hindu temple of ancient times.
Anyways, from your tuk tuk rides to your professional way of blogging is very inspiring, expressive and enjoyable.
Wonderful post as always, Hope you're doing great dear friend :)
Hello dearest Sahiba @sahiba-rana. I'm truly glad my personal story has inspired you with an adventurous spirit. Your sense of wonder for these incredible temple ruins spark curiosity, magnetizing you to visit this exotic Cambodian location someday. Thank you for your beautiful remark and have an enjoyable weekend! 😊🙏
Why you stoped posting?