Cambodian Architecture PDF

Cambodian Architecture Presenters: Basis, Joyce Ann Cayetano, Vanness Kyle Padul, Denver Radam, Ann Jenelle V. Cartin, Emmie Claire M. Chua, Allyza Cassandra C. Oseña, Nicole Repaso, Brytnie ...

Cambodian Architecture Presenters: Basis, Joyce Ann Cayetano, Vanness Kyle Padul, Denver Radam, Ann Jenelle V. Cartin, Emmie Claire M. Chua, Allyza Cassandra C. Oseña, Nicole Repaso, Brytnie  Objectives By the end of this lesson, we should know: Architectural Influences Architectural Character Architectural Temples and Palaces  I n t r o d u c t i o n is a d is t in c tiv e o d ia n a r c h it e c t ure Camb a n d m o d ern n c ie n t trad it io n s fusion o f a h t he c o u n t r y ’s r ic s, r e f le c t in g influence. F r o m t h e c u lt u r a l evo lu tio n history a n d h e le s , in c lu d in g t e n t a l A n g k o r t e mp monum a t , to the n e d A n gk o r W world -r e n o w h , in P h n o m P e n e ra b u ild in g s colonial- m a rk e d b y a rc h it e c tu re is Cambo d ia n s p ir it u a l s y m b o li sm, te c r a ft s m a n s h ip , intrica s t y le s. This e r s e r e gio n a l and d iv t o ry n o to n ly t e ll s t h e s t u r a l h e rit a g e architec c o n t inu e s to ia 's p a s t b ut a ls o of Ca m b o d re s e n t a n d f u t u re. shape its p  HISTORICAL GEOGRAPHICAL GEOLOGICAL ARCHITECTURAL CLIMATIC INFLUENCES RELIGIOUS SOCIAL AND POLITICAL What we'll be discussing: CULTURAL HINDU INFLUENCES THE SHIFT TO BUDDHISM Historical Influences Prehistory (4200 B.C. - 1st Century A.D.) Evidence of pots dating back 4200 B.C Stable, organized societies that spoke languages similar to present day Khmer by 1st Century A.D. Khmer people were some of the first people to adopt religions and political ideas from India. Furnanes Period Funanese Period (2nd - 6th (2nd - 6th Century A.D.) Century A.D.) Early Indo-China consisted of many small states which ultimately took shape as Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, of which Cambodia is the oldest. Funan was a major sea port which had a major role in transmission of culture into Cambodia including the introduction of Hinduism.  Chenla Period (7th - 8th Century A.D.) Another one of the states that existed during the Funanese period Gained independence and conquered Funan When the king governing this empire (Jayavarman I) died, the kingdom was divided into Land Chenla and Water Chenla. Furnanes Period Angkorian (2nd Era- (9th - 13th Century A.D.) 6th Century A.D.) King Jayavarman II brought the remnants of Chenla together under his control and founded the unified Angkor Kingdom with the first city Phnom Kulen. The famous Angkor Wat was built during this era by King Jayavarman II as a devotion to Hindu god, Vishnu. Jayavarman VII was another king that existed during this era. Around 13th century, Theravada Buddhism was introduced by monks from Sri- Lanka which eventually became the prominent religion in Cambodia. Dark Ages of Khmer Kingdom (14th - 19th Century A.D.) After the death of King Jayavarman VII, the empire experienced great decline. Khmer kingdom lost control of the peripheries. Involved in power struggle between Annam/Champa (Vietnam) and Siam (Thailand) Furnanes Period French Colonial Period (19th - 20th Century A.D.) (2nd - 6th Century A.D.) In 1863, King Norodom signed treaty with French to establish protectorate and eventually became a colony of France. World War II also occurred during this era and the Japanese empire occupied much of Cambodia during 1941- 1945. In 1953, Cambodia gained independence from the French.  Khmer Rouge (20th Century A.D.) Pol Pot: Leader of Khmer Rouge; member of French Communist Party and became the leader of Cambodia in 1975. Attempts at agriculture reform which led to famine, diseases, and death Killed many intellectuals, city dwellers, minority people. Approximately 2.1 million people died (21% of Cambodia's population) Furnanes Period Year Zero (Khmer(2nd Rouge) (20th Century A.D.) - 6th Century A.D.) Cambodia was taken over by Pol Pot. Drastic revolution: All moved to countryside to become agricultural workers. Money becomes worthless. Basic freedoms are curtailed and religion is banned. In 1975, Cambodia was renamed as Kampuchea. In 1977, Cambodia-Vietnam war took place. In 1979, Vietnamese forces took Phnom Penh. Pol Pot and Khmer troops fled. The people's republic of Kampuchea was established. Uneasy Peace (20th Century A.D.) In 1989, Vietnamese troops withdrew and the country was renamed as State of Cambodia. In 1993, the monarchy was restored. The country was renamed as the Kingdom of Cambodia. In 1998, Pol Pot died. In 2005, Khmer Rouge leaders were tried and given punishments. Geographical Influence Cambodia's main geographical features are the low-lying central plain, the lower Mekong river flood-plains, and the Bassac river plain surrounded by mountain ranges. The central lowlands extend into Vietnam and the South and Southwest of the country constitute a 443-km long coast at the gulf of Thailand. The highest peak is Phnom Aural, sitting 1,810 metres (5,938 feet) above sea level. The landmass is bisected by the Mekong river, which is the longest river in Cambodia and is predominantly calm and navigable during the entire year. The Mekong’s waters disperse into the surrounding wetlands of central Cambodia and strongly affect the seasonal nature of the Tonlé Sap. Geological Influences  Geological Influences The materials available to Khmer builders impacted the development of their architectural style. Soft sandstone, laterite, and wood were abundant, so most buildings utilized these materials. The soft sandstone allowed for intricate carving, as seen in the decorative lintels and columns of temples like Angkor Wat. Laterite, a durable red stone, was used for foundations and walls. Wood was used for structural elements like beams, as well as for decorative accents. The carvings on Banteay Srei depict Hindu myths like Laterite was used in Banteay Srei's construction Rama’s battle with Ravana and Krishna slaying Kamsa, because it was abundant, durable, and practical. It symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. Intricate provided a strong foundation and walls while being patterns, gods like Shiva, and mythical creatures cheaper and easier to work with than sandstone, reflect cosmic order and the temple’s spiritual which was saved for the intricate carvings. The warm devotion, showcasing the artistry of the Khmer reddish-brown of laterite also added a beautiful civilization. contrast to the pink sandstone, making the temple even more striking. Climatic Influences  Climatic Influences Cambodia’s tropical climate, characterized by high Khmer architecture temperatures, wasrainfall, heavy well-adapted and hightohumidity, Cambodia’shas significantly tropical monsooninfluenced climate.itsTemples architecture. have The thickintense walls andheat ledwindows small to the todesign of thick regulate walls and temperature. small Vaulted windows ceilings andtocorridors keep interiors allow cool and circulation. for air reduce sunlight The exposure. tiered roofs The monsoonstaircases, of prasats, season, withandits moats heavy rains, were required oriented steeply sloped to channel roofs and durable materials rainwater. like laterite and sandstone to withstand water damage. The high humidity also made wood less suitable for long-lasting structures, pushing builders to rely on stone for monumental architecture. These climatic factors shaped Cambodia's distinctive architectural style, focusing on durability and comfort in a challenging environment.  Climatic Influences Wet Season (May to October): Dominated by the southwest monsoon, bringing heavy rains and high humidity. Temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F). This season can cause flooding, which influenced architectural features like raised foundations and durable materials. Dry Season (November to April): Controlled by the northeast monsoon, bringing dry, hot weather with little rain. Temperatures can exceed 35°C (95°F) during the peak months of March and April. The dry heat influenced the use of thick walls and small windows to keep interiors cool. Religious Influences  Buddhism Religious Influences The Khmer empire adopted Hinduism and later Buddhism, and their temple complexes were oriented toward honoring their religious devotion. The central temples housed representations of Hindu deities like Vishnu, Shiva and Brahma. The Hinduism architectural layout, bas-reliefs and sculptures throughout the temples depicted religious scenes and were designed to inspire awe in devotees.  Buddhism Buddhism, particularly Mahayana under King Jayavarman VII (12th century), shaped Cambodia’s architecture with temples like Bayon, featuring massive stone faces symbolizing compassion and enlightenment, and Ta Prohm, where nature intertwines with intricate carvings of Bodhisattvas and lotus motifs. These structures reflect a blend of spiritual symbolism and organic harmony, making them unique. bayon Temple in Cambodia.  Hinduism Hinduism influenced Cambodia during the Angkor period, with temples like Angkor Wat, dedicated to Vishnu, showcasing Mount Meru’s cosmic symbolism through its central towers and extensive Ramayana bas-reliefs. Preah Vihear, dedicated to Shiva, stands out with its mountaintop location and linear layout. These structures uniquely integrate Hindu cosmology with Khmer artistry  Other Religions in Cambodia Islam: Practiced by the Cham people, a minority group in Cambodia, Islam arrived through trade and cultural exchange with the Malay Archipelago. Today, around 2% of the population is Muslim, mostly Sunni. Christianity: Introduced during the French colonial period, Christianity has a small presence in Cambodia, primarily among ethnic Vietnamese and a few indigenous groups. Roman Catholicism and Protestantism are the two main branches. Animism: Many Cambodians, especially among indigenous and rural communities, still follow animist beliefs, which involve the worship of spirits and nature. This includes ancestor worship and rituals related to local deities, forests, and rivers. Social and Political Influences Social and Political Influences The immense resources required to construct the Khmer temples demonstrated the wealth, stability and control of the Khmer rulers. Angkor Wat alone took 30 years to build in the 12th century, requiring thousands of workers and artisans. The temple complexes were also administrative and population centers, highlighting the Khmer empire’s political dominance in Southeast Asia at the time. Jayavarman II: Self-Proclaimed God-King of the Khmer Empire  Chenla Kingdom Cambodia i Social and Political Influences In the 7th century, Cambodia was divided into different regions. The southern part was called Funan, while the north was ruled by Chenla, a smaller state under Funan. Over time, Chenla became stronger and took over Funan, splitting the country into two parts: Chenla of the Hill and Chenla of the Water by the 8th century. In the early 9th century, the Division of Chenla of the Land and Chenla of the Khmer Empire united the entire region under one water ruler, leading to the country being known as the Khmer Kingdom. In terms of architecture, historians like Henri Parmentier divide Cambodia’s history into two main periods: "primitive Khmer art" (before the Angkor Empire) and "classical Khmer art" (during the Angkor Empire). Some scholars use "pre-Angkorian" and "Angkorian" to describe these periods. Cultural Influences  The architectural and artistic mastery of the Khmer empire is a testament to the sophistication of their culture. Everything from the intricate details of carvings and sculptures in stone to the symbolic layout of the temples gave expression to cultural themes of religion, mythology, royalty and daily life. This cultural legacy has endured for centuries and established Cambodia as the seat of one of the most advanced civilizations of its time. ANGKOR WAT A massive temple complex in Cambodia, originally built in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman II. It is the largest religious monument in the world. Its design symbolizes the Hindu universe, with the central tower representing Mount Meru, the center of the universe. CANALS AND BARAYS Massive reservoirs (called barays) and an intricate network of canals helped regulate water for agriculture, which was critical in a region dependent on seasonal rainfall. Hindu Influences HINDU INFLUENCES Early Khmer architecture was heavily influenced by Hinduism. Hinduism became the main religion, which greatly influenced the design of temples in Cambodia. HINDU INFLUENCES Temples were designed to represent the cosmos, with the central tower symbolizing Mount Meru, the home of the gods in Hindu mythology. The temples also included long halls, known as mandapas, and intricate stone carvings depicting Hindu myths and rituals. The Shift to Buddhism HINDU INFLUENCES Angkor Thom is a city designed in a way that mirrored the Hindu cosmic structure and maintained its Hindu-inspired layout Bayon Temple was built as the king's state temple and became the symbolic center of his reign. HINDU INFLUENCES In the 12th century, Khmer King Jayavarman VII converted to Buddhism Temple layouts and the use of stone carvings, were retained and repurposed in the Buddhist context.  MATERIALS STRUCTURES ELEMENTS ARCHITECTURAL PRE-KHMER CHARACTER ARCHITECTURE What we'll be discussing: CLASSICAL KHMER ARCHITECTURE DISTINCTIVE FEATURES OF KHMER TEMPLE DESIGN MOTIFS Materials INTRODUCTION Angkorian builders utilized brick, sandstone, laterite and wood, but what remains is brick, sandstone and laterite, while the wooden elements have decayed overtime. In Cambodia, the construction industry uses a variety of materials, reflecting a blend of traditional methods and modern techniques. The materials are chosen based on their availability, cost, and suitability to the climate and construction needs. The most common construction materials used to build structural components are as follows:  BUILDING MATERIALS 1 Timber 2 Brick 3 Sandstone 4 Concrete 5 Laterite TIMBER Timber structures are important to the architectural heritage of the country. Traditional timber buildings include houses, temples, and other communal structures, reflecting both practical and cultural significance. Traditional Cambodian houses in rural areas are often elevated on stilts to prevent flooding and pest infestations. These houses typically have a simple rectangular shape with steeply pitched roofs. Wood is used extensively in both the structural and decorative elements of these homes. BRICK Brick structures represent a historical heritage and modern practicality. Bricks are commonly produced locally, supporting the economy and providing affordable building materials. From ancient temples to contemporary residential and commercial buildings, bricks provide durability and fire resistance. Modern techniques employ cement mortar for bonding bricks, and reinforced concrete frameworks are often used to enhance the structural integrity of brick capacity known as masonry structures. Pre and early Angkorian religious temples and shrines can be characterized as being modestly-sized, with some intricate stucco carvings, and comprised entirely of stacks of ancient red clay bricks Figure on the left: Pre Rup Temple SANDSTONE Sandstone used by Angkorian builders were obtained from the Kulen plateau, the closest to Angkor being some 30 kilometers away. Initially, this material was used for particular elements like door frames due to the complicated process of transferring it from Kulen to construction site. Takeo is possibly the first Angkorian temple to be built entirely in sandstones, which were cut into a regular size and placed in position. Figure on the right: Takeo Temple CONCRETE Recently, concrete structures have become popular in various applications such as residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects. Concrete is a popular choice due to its affordability and ease of construction. It is often used in foundations, walls, and pavements. A. Reinforced Concrete- suitable for taller buildings and other structures in the construction industry. B. Prestressed Concete- commonly applied in bridges, parking structures, and high-rise buildings. Figure on the right: National Sports Complex in Phnom Penh LATERITE Laterite stone is common throughout hot, wet tropical areas, and the Kingdom is no different. Typically a reddish colour due to its high iron content, it forms under the earth after prolonged weathering. Heavy rainfall and alternate wet and dry periods over centuries led to its formation. Laterite was used most commonly from the 6th century until the Angkorian period, in the 13th century. Although no large temples are currently under construction, demand for laterite remains. It is generally used to repair temples, or to build and maintain pagoda walls. Where there is demand, there are suppliers. Structures  THE MOST FAMOUS STRUCTURE IN ANGKOR CAMBODIA Recognized as a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 1992, Angkor is considered WAT to be the most important archaeological park in the world and the capital of the Khmer empire from the ninth century to the fifteenth century. The original purpose of the construction of Angkor Wat was to make the Hindu Siem Reap, Cambodia temple of the Khmer empire, but in the 12th century, the Khmer people turned it into a Buddhist temple. Angkor Wat is an architectural masterpiece and the largest religious monument in the world – covering an area four times the size of Vatican City.  THE IMPRESSIVE STRUCTURE IN ANGKOR CAMBODIA Angkor Thom is the last and longest capital city of the Khmer Empire. It was built in THOM the late 12th century by King Giaiavacman VII. Angkor Thom also has the same mysterious charm as Angkor Wat. Angkor Thom is constructed in the Bayon style, indicating the size of the building, the main material being bees, the human faces, Siem Reap, Cambodia and the Naga statue at each tower. There are 5 entrances to the city from 4 directions, the Bayon Temple is the center. The top of each entry is four giant faces carved into the stone. The South Gate is one of the famous landmarks of Angkor and also the main entrance for tourists.  CENTER OF ANGKOR THOM BAYON it was built in the late 12th and early 13th centuries as the official temple of King Jayavarman VII. This is the most impressive temple of Cambodian temple architecture by means of the grandeur of scale as well as the emotions that it gives visitors. The temple TEMPLE consists of 54 large and small towers, each tower with a sculpture of the face of Lokesvara, or Avalokitesvara, which symbolizes the observation of the divine to the four directions of Cambodia. Siem Reap, Cambodia Bayon's structure consists of three floors, all three floors are dilapidated, brick lay everywhere. Two downstairs arranged in a square, adorned with reliefs on the wall. The third floor is arranged in a circle with many towers whose faces are shaped like stones. The downstairs lobby is an art gallery with 11,000 sculptures engraved on a 1200 meter rock wall. The most outstanding visual of Bayon is the towering spires, carved into four faces looking four directions. ROYAL THE SHINING CAMBODIAN ARCHITECTURE The Royal Palace of Cambodia is a complex of buildings where the Royal Kingdom of Cambodia was built more than a century ago to serve the monarchs, royal families, and PALACE foreign guests. It is also a place for courts, protocols, and royal ceremonies. The whole building is solidly built including many towering pyramids - a typical architecture of Cambodia. The entire building is separated from the outside by a wall. The interior works Phnom Penh,Cambodia are elaborately decorated and carefully maintained with the flower garden. The Royal Palace consists of a complex of relics including the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda. PREAH THE CHARMING CAMBODIAN ARCHITECTURE The Royal Palace of Cambodia is a complex of buildings where the Royal Kingdom of VIHEAR Cambodia was built more than a century ago to serve the monarchs, royal families, and foreign guests. It is also a place for courts, protocols, and royal ceremonies. The whole building is solidly built including many towering pyramids - a typical architecture of Cambodia. The entire building is separated from the outside by a wall. The interior works TEMPLE are elaborately decorated and carefully maintained with the flower garden. The Royal Palace consists of a complex of relics including the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda. Preah Vihear Province, Cambodia Elements Bas-reliefs are individual figures, groups of figures, or entire scenes cut into stone walls, as sculpted images projecting from a background. Angkorian shrines frequently opened in only one direction, typically to the East. The other three sides featured fake or blind doors to maintain symmetry. Blind windows were often used along otherwise blank walls. Blind door and window Colonette Colonettes were narrow decorative columns that served as supports for the beams and lintels above doorways or windows. Depending on the period, they were round, rectangular, or octagonal in shape. Colonettes were often circled with molded rings and decorated with carved leaves  Corbelling Angkorian engineers tended to use the corbel arch in order to construct rooms, passageways and openings in buildings. A corbel arch is constructed by adding layers of stones to the walls on either side of an opening, with each successive layer projecting further towards the centre than the one supporting it from below, until the two sides meet in the middle.  Tympanum Lintel A pediment is a roughly triangular structure above a lintel. Pendiment A tympanum A lintel is a horizontal beam connecting is the two vertical columns between which runs a decorated door or passageway. Because the Angkorian surface of a Khmer lacked the ability to construct a true pediment. arch, they constructed their passageways using lintels or corbelling. Lintel, Pediment, and Tympanum During the pre-Khmer period, the columns and the lintels played a special role. The columns were nearly always circular-but turned to be octagonal about the end of the period. In both the cases, they were usually ornamented with rings of various motifs, sometimes of friezes with pendant garlands.  Philippe Stern and G. de Coral Remusat divided the decoration of this period into three styles— (1) the style of Sambor, covering the Sambor seventh century, (2) the style of Prei Khmeng, covering the first half of the eighth century, and (3) the style of Kompong Preah, Prei Khmeng covering the second half of the eighth century. According to Coral Remusat, ‘they are related to the art of India and carry among the moldings of their base, and capital, the bulb, souvenir of the ‘turban’ of the Indian pillars.” Kompong Preah Pre-Khmer Architecture  Pre-Angkorian Architecture is found at a great number of sites scattered through the Indochinese peninsula, indicating Indian influences which have been more or less assimilated. Before the seventh century, these remains are difficult to reconstitute. The architectural history of this period, very roughly that of the seventh and eighth centuries, is best represented at two major sites, Sambor Prei Kuk and the Kulen plateau  Sambor Prei Kuk is located in an irregular plain irrigated by the Mekong, but close to the Stung Sambor Prei Kuk Sen, an affiuent of the Tonle Sap. It is a region where the archaeological sites are numerous, and the environment of Sambor is a good illustration: in a square formed by sides of roughly 20 km, some ten temples are still standing, which implies the existence of a substantial population in the past. Sambor itself has been divided into three groups: north, centre, and south. Each comprises an enclosure with a certain number of buildings constructed outside the walls. Classical Khmer Architecture The classical period of the Khmer architecture which lasted until the ‘13th century actually set in the 9th century. Scholars believe that it was the result of the style derived from the indigenous wooden architecture, forms and technique imported from India. Parmentier observes, ‘‘The original timber buildings, consisted of halls or galleries surrounded by angular tiled roofs, often multiplied or piled up in pyramidal fashion may be seen even in the modern architecture of Cambodia, Siam and Burma’’. This is met with for the first time in the architecture of the Roluos style. Roluos style is a term for the sculptural art of the Roluos temples in Cambodia, which are known for their intricate carvings and details from Vishu on Garunda on Lintels, Niches and Wall decorations of Guardians and Devatas. Here again for the first time, the groups of temples are surrounded by concentric enclosures. The false inner ones have the walls of laterite with Gopuras (entrance towers) or false Gopuras at each entrance. The outer enclosure consists of a moat and enbankment of earth with a wooden palisade.  This is a gopura, a (usually monumental) entrance. Temples have such portals between communicating yards towards the cardinal points.  In the case of Khmer Temples, they have more than one purpose. MOAT Stability The moat helped keep the temple from crumbling a deep, wide under its own weight and maintained the temple's ditch physical balance. Water management surrounding The moat collected runoff water during the a castle, fort, monsoon and recharged the sand layer beneath the temple. or town, Symbolism The moat represented the ocean in Hinduism, typically which is the source of life and creative energy. In filled with the Khmer tradition, the temple was considered Mount Meru, the home of the gods, and the moat water and was the ocean. intended as a Engineering The moat was an engineering requirement to ensure defense the temple had a sound foundation, even if the against underground water level changed. Religious duty attack. The moat was transformed into a religious duty to ANGKOR THOM TEMPLE GEOGRAPHICAL LAYOUT ensure there was water to support the temple. Journey to salvation Visitors began their journey to salvation by crossing the moat on causeways lined with serpents. The Khmer temple was designed as a microcosm of the Hindu cosmological universe. Moving from the temple’s entrance to the sanctuary at its center, the visitor undergoes a symbolic three- staged journey to salvation through enlightenment.  The accessory buildings are within the second enclosure. The rectangular plan with gables at the ends has disappeared during the Kulen period, except for some accessory buildings such as libraries and galleries which are beginning to appear in stone. Angkor Wat Ancient Library A cruciform gallery separates the courtyards at Angkor Wat.  The shrine usually consists of the principal body and four upper storeys. The principal body has a door, opening to the east and false doors on other three sides. The inter- pilasters of the principal body are provided with niches, carved in stone with overhanging arch sheltering a human figure, male or female according to the divinity sheltered by the temple. At the center of the temple stand sanctuaries with tower superstructures  The flying palaces have disappeared forever. Niches take the place of the false doors on the succeeding stages. As has been pointed out elsewhere inside the temple, the floor is a few feet below the level of the threshold. The ceiling that covers the corbelled vault has disappeared. It was originally made of A Devata in a Niche at Ta Angkor Wat Corbel vault Prom Ceiling wood. Distinctive Features of Khmer Temple Design  The Khmer temple design incorporates several distinctive features that make the architecture unique. Symmetrical Layout Khmer temples follow a symmetrical layout with a central tower surrounded by smaller towers at the cardinal points. This symbolic design represents the cosmic order of the universe, with the central tower as Mount Meru, the home of the gods, surrounded by lesser peaks. The Quincunx of Towers at the centre of Angkor Wat  Hierarchical Scale The central tower, also known as the vimana, was the tallest structure in the temple. The towers that surrounded it descended in height, emphasizing the vimana as the most sacred point. This hierarchical scale, with the vimana at the center, symbolized the Khmer belief in a hierarchy of deities. Angkor Wat, Cambodia  Ornate Carvings Temples are renowned for their exquisite carvings that depict religious and mythological scenes. Entire walls were carved with bas-reliefs, a type of shallow relief carving where figures protrude slightly from the background. These carvings were integral to decorating and embellishing the temples. Bas Reliefs on EastWing the Northern Gallery of Angkor Wat  Red Sandstone and Laterite The temples were constructed from sandstone and laterite, sedimentary rocks common in Cambodia. The soft sandstone allowed for the intricate carvings, while the hard laterite was used for foundations and enclosing walls. These materials gave Khmer architecture its distinctive red hue and helped the structures withstand the tropical climate. Pre - Rup Temple Motifs APSARAS AND DEVATAS Apsaras, divine nymphs or celestial dancing girls are characters from Indian mythology. In modern descriptions of Angkorian temples the term “apsara” is sometimes used to refer not only to dancers but also to other minor female deities, through minor female deities who are depicted standing about rather than dancing are more commonly called “devatas” DVARAPALA Dvarapalas are human or demonic temple guardians, generally armed with lances and clubs. They are presented either as a stone statues or as relief carvings in the walls of temples and other buildings, generally close to entrances or passageways. Their function is to protect the temples. GAJASIMHA AND REACHISEY The gajasimha is a mythical animal with the body of a lion and the head of an elephant. At Angkor, it is portrayed as a guardian of temples and as a mount for some warriors. GARUDA Garuda is a divine being that is part man and part bird. He is the lord of birds, the mythological enemy of nagas and the battle steed of Vishnu. INDRA In the ancient religion of the Vedas, Indra the sky-god reigned supreme. In the medieval Hinduism of Angkor, however, he had no religious statues and served only as a decorative motif in architecture. KALA The kala is a ferocious monster symbolic of time in its all-devouring aspect and associated with the destructive side of the god Shiva. KRISHNA Scenes from the life of Krishna, a mythological hero and Avatar of the god Vishnu are common in the relief carvings decorating Angkorian temples and unknown in Angkorian sculpture in the round. LINGA The linga is a phallic post or cylinder symbolic of the god Shiva and of creative power. As a religious symbol, the function of the linga is primarily that of worship and ritual and only that of decoration. MAKARA A makara is a mythical sea monster with the body of a serpent, the trunk of an elephant and a head that can have features reminiscent of a lion, a crocodile, or a dragon. NAGA Mythical serpents or nagas represent an important motif in Khmer architecture as well as in free-standing sculpture. They are frequently depicted as having multiple heads, always uneven in number, arranged in a fan. Each head has a flared hood in the manner of a cobra. NAGA BRIDGE Naga bridges are causeways or true bridges lined by stone balustrades shaped as nagas. QUINCUNX A quincunx is a spatial arrangement of five elements with four elements placed as the corners of a square and the fifth placed in the center. SHIVA Most temples at Angkor are dedicated to Shiva. In general, the Angkorian Khmer represented and worshipped Shiva in the form of a lingam though they also fashioned anthropomorphic statues of the god. VISHNU Angkorian representations of Vishnu include anthropomorphic representations of the god himself, as well as representations of his incarnations or Avatars especially Krishna and Rama. ARCHITECTURAL TEMPLES OF ANGKOR TEMPLES AND PALACES THE ROYAL PALACES What we'll be discussing: TEMPLES OF ANGKOR Angkor Wat " City Temple" It was the world's largest religious monument, erected in less than 40 years, and was dedicated to the Hindu god, Vishnu. It has been a Buddhist temple, or wat, since at least the 15th century. It mirrors the Hindu cosmos. The five towers of the central shrine are the peaks of the mythical Mount Meru, axis of the universe and home of gods. Concentric walls are mountain ranges beyond Meru. World' largest Religious Monument Angkor Wat is the star attraction at the vast Angkor Archaeological Park, which spans from the Tonle Sap Lake in the south to the Kulen Mountains in the north. Banteay Srei Banteay Srei means ‘Citadel of the Women’, and it is said that it must have been built by a woman, as the elaborate carvings are supposedly too fine for the hand of a man. Classic carvings at Banteay Srei include delicate women with lotus flowers in hand and traditional skirts clearly visible, as well as breathtaking recreations of scenes from the epic Ramayana adorning the library pediments Preah Khan A labyrinth of pavilions, halls, and chapels, it was built by the Buddhist Jayavarman VII in memory of his father. It was originally built as a Buddhist temple and the name means "Royal Sword" or "Holy Sword." The temple was built on the site of a victorious battle against the invading Chams. The modern name, Preah Khan (Royal Sword or Holy Sword), directly comes from the original name, Nagar Jayasri. Banteay Kdei Its name means “Citadel of Chambers”, which is the ruins are a fascinating maze of chambers that are a delight to explore. Banteay Kdei is located opposite of Srah Srang, which is an ancient and historic man-made reservoir (also known as the “royal bathing pool”). Built in the late 12th and early 13th centuries under the reign of Jayavarman VII. The temple was created in a very similar architectural style as Bayon, Ta Prohm and Preah Khan. However, it is small in size compared to other Angkor temples. Ta Prohm "Tomb Raider Temple" Undoubtedly the most atmospheric ruin at Angkor. Built from 1186 and originally known as Rajavihara (Monastery of the King), Ta Prohm was a Buddhist temple dedicated to the mother of Jayavarman VII. A temple of towers, closed courtyards and narrow corridors. Many of the corridors are impassable, clogged with jumbled piles of delicately carved stone blocks dislodged by the roots of long- decayed trees Bayon Temple Original Name: Jayagiri, Chey Kiri or “Victory Mountain” Sweeping bas-relief murals in Bayon temple immortalize not only victorious battles, but common Khmer life: childbirth, gambling, and marketplace Famous for its array of towers with smiling faces and “baroque” architecture in a Khmer context. From a religious/symbolic point of view, it united all the religions of the Khmer Empire under the Buddhist King, Jayavarman VII. Angkor Thom Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire, was a fortified city enclosing residences of priest, officials of the palace and military, as well as buildings for administering the kingdom. These structures were built of wood and have perished but the remaining stone monuments testify that Angkor Thom was indeed a "Great City" as its name implies. The temple of the Bayon is situated at the exact center of the axes and stands as the symbolical link between heaven and earth. Pre Rup "Turning the Body" Its architectural style is very similar to that of the earlier East Mebon, the major difference being the stepped pyramid of the Pre Rup that is missing in the East Mebon temple. Most striking feature of the Pre Rup temple are the three large towers on either side of the Eastern entrance, the main entrance of the temple The inner enclosure contains a three tiered pyramid. On the pyramid’s second level are 12 small sanctuaries grouped around the structure that each used to contain a linga, a representation of Shiva. At the center of each side of the pyramid is a stairway leading to the platform with the five towers. The stairway is guarded on both sides by lion statues. Banteay Samre "Fortress of Samre" or "Citadel of Samre" has an imposing walls and intricate doorways. The temple’s structure is a testament to the architectural prowess of the Khmer Empire. The mighty walls, the intricate carvings, the towering spires, each element is a piece of the puzzle that makes up this architectural marvel. Each doorway is an intricate piece of art, adorned with carvings that tell tales of the gods and goddesses, of mythical creatures and legendary battles. The Naga, a mythical serpent creature, plays a significant role in the Banteay Samre temple. Naek Pean "The Entwined Snakes" small temple in the Jayatataka baray, a water reservoir 3,500 meter long and 900 meter wide. Initially dedicated to the Buddha, the temple was rededicated to Lokeshvara, the Bodhisattva of compassion. The central pond of Neak Pean symbolizes lake Anavatapta, a lake located in the center of the world in Buddhist cosmology. The four chapels were used by pilgrims who would wash away their sins in the cleansing waters of the central pond. In each chapel there is a stone gargoyle in a different shape, namely a head of a King, an elephant, a lion and a horse. In the center of the central pond is a circular island with a diameter of 14 meters, on which stands the sanctuary. The sandstone sanctuary is set on a circular stone base, encircled by two Naga snakes, guarding the East entrance of the temple. Phnom Bakheng Bakheng Temple sits atop the 65m rise that carries the same name, Phnom Bakheng ("Little Hill") and looks across the plains below with Angkor Thom to its north and Angkor Wat to its southeast, both of which it predates by more than two centuries. Atop the pyramid, the central shrine is extremely ornate with a high standard of workmanship that was typical of the period. Floral, geometric, and leaf patterns abound on the pilasters, often inset with small deity figures and beautifully executed reliefs of enshrined devata flank the doorways. Prasat Beng Mealea "Temple of Lotus Pond" Beng Mealea, located about 68km northeast of Siem Reap, is one of the most mysterious temples at Angkor. Built with same floor plan as the Angkor Wat Enclosed by a massive moat measuring 1.2km by 900m. Beng Mealea is at the centre of an ancient Angkorian road connecting Angkor Thom and Preah Khan (Prasat Bakan) in Preah Vihear Province. Ta Som Means "the moon, Shiva, or a sacred wood whose bark is used in decoction". Is one of the smaller temple sites in the Angkor Archeological Park. One of the most prominent features of the site is the huge strangler fig tree which has engulfed the eastern gopura or gate. It also features towers with serene faces on the outer enclosure of this Bayon-style temple. East Mebon East Mebon is a mountain temple which was built in the middle of the 10th century. It was built by King Rajendravarman II and dedicated to Shiva. Mebon is a pyramid of terraces with stunning sculptures and statues, including the 2m high elephants which sit on each corner. The outer enclosure wall on the first level measures 108 m by 104 m, it is built of laterite. Most striking features are eight monolithic elephant statues in the corners of two levels. The most remarkable stone carving is at the east side of the west gate (facing the central platform). It depicts the lion-man Narasingha (Narasimha) clawing the demon Hiranyakashipu. Ta Keo Temple "The Mountain with Golden Peaks" Built by Jayavarman V. On 11century and dedicated it to Shiva. First Angkorian Monument built entirely in Sandstone features the most-ancient circular gallery within its premises. The 80 meter (262.5 feet) long and 75 meter (246.1 feet) wide galleries surround the second tier of pyramids. The unfinished Angkor Temple Baphuon Temple "Golden Mountain", refers to the artificial hill where it is built. known for its grand entrance, its scale, and the impressive reliefs especially those on the second enclosure of the top level. It dates to the mid-11th century, attributed to the king Udayadityavarman II, and was originally dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva before later transforming to become a Buddhist temple. Located in Angkor Thom just north of Bayon Temple. Features grand entrance terrace, the massive reclining Buddha on the west side of the site, and the impressive bas-reliefs around the gopuras of the second level depicting legendary tales of the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and life of Krishna. Kho Ker (Thom Pyramid) Also known as "The Ironwood Tree" Also known as Prasat Thom, is an ancient Khmer temple complex located in the Preah Vihearprovince of Cambodia Built by King Jayavarman IV, and became the capital of the Khmer Empire during the 10th Century. A seven-tiered pyramid soaring over 30 meters. Phnom Khrom The name means ‘Lower Hill’ and is a reference to its geographic location in relation to its sister temples of Phnom Bakheng and Phnom Bok. 12km south of Siem Reap on a hill overlooking Tonlé Sap lake, dates from the reign of Yasovarman I in the late 9th or early 10th century. The three towers, dedicated (from north to south) to Vishnu, Shiva and Brahma, are in a ruined state. Kravan Temple Built by statesmen of the 10th century rather than a king, along with the Banteay Srei. Kravan was constructed in 921 by the high-ranking official Mahidharavarman during the reign of King Hasharvarman I and dedicated to Lord Vishnu, one of the supreme deities in Hinduism, which was the state religion during many chapters of the Angkorian period Inside the middle tower, the Angkorian sculptors focused solely on depicting Vishnu. THE ROYAL PALACE Royal Palace Royal Palace (Preah Barum Reachea Veang Chaktomuk Serei Mongkol) "Penh's Hill", also known as Krong Chaktomuk Serimongkul (The City of the Brahma's Faces), is the capital of Cambodia. Royal palace painted in Yellow, representing Buddhism. While White represents Hinduism. The architecture of the Royal Palace employed traditional Khmer design with French influence. The layout of the temple is over 3 principal compounds in which there is the Silver Pagoda, the Main Palace and the Central Throne in the central compound. Nak Oknha Tep Nimith Mok, a great architect at that time. THRONE HALL Preah Tineang Tevea Vinnichay Mohai Moha Prasat means the “Sacred Seat of Judgement” The hall is where the King’s confidants, generals, and royal officials once carried out their duties. The building is 30×60 meters. an ancient nine-level classical Khmer-style throne. Three of the nine levels of the throne represent the levels of hell, middle earth, and the heavens. The Preah Thineang Bossabok is for the KING and the Preah Thineang Nearyrath Sophea at the back is for the QUEEN. Khemarin Palace English name for a building called "Khemarin Moha Prasat" or in Khmer meaning the “Palace of the Khmer King.” Official Residence of King of Cambodia Compound is separated from other buildings by a small wall and is located to the right of the Throne Hall. "Moonlight Pavilion " "Moonlight Pavilion" (Preah Thineang Chan Chhaya) has a balcony that was used as a platform for viewing parades marching along Sothearos Boulevard of Phnom Penh. The Pavilion serves as a venue for the Royal Dancers, as a tribune for the King to address the crowds and as a place to hold state and Royal banquets. The Silver Pagoda Officially called Preah Vihear Preah Keo Morakot but is commonly referred to as Wat Preah Keo. Its main building houses many national treasures such as gold and jeweled Buddha statues, most notable is the Crystal buddha or the "Emerald Budha" of Cambodia. the Silver Pagoda was inlaid with more than 5,000 silver tiles and some of its outer facades was remodeled with Italian marble.  Wrapping Up In conclusion, Cambodia's architecture offers a captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern influences, reflecting the nation's rich cultural heritage and history. From the grandeur of Angkor Wat to the contemporary designs emerging in Phnom Penh, Cambodian architecture continues to evolve while honoring its past. This dynamic fusion of old and new highlights the resilience and creativity of the Cambodian people. As we look ahead, it will be exciting to see how these architectural forms continue to shape and define the country's future. Thank you for listening! Wishing you all the best on your test!