Angkor

Site of the ancient capital of the Khmer Empire in northwestern Cambodia, north of Tonle Sap. The remains date mainly from the 10th to 12th centuries, and comprise temples originally dedicated to the Hindu gods, shrines associated with Theravada Buddhism, and royal palaces. Many are grouped within the enclosure called Angkor Thom, but the great temple of Angkor Wat (early 12th century) lies outside.

Angkor was abandoned in the 15th century, and the ruins were overgrown by jungle and not adequately described until 1863. Buildings on the site suffered damage during the civil war 1970–75; restoration work is in progress.