Angkor Wat's Abandonment: The Afterlife of a Temple

After centuries as the heart of the Khmer Empire, Angkor Wat was gradually abandoned. But it never truly died. This episode explores what happened after the capital moved south in the 15th century—how the temple remained a pilgrimage site for Theravada Buddhists, how it was cared for by monks, and how it became a symbol of national identity for Cambodia. We look at the early European visitors, the eventual 'rediscovery' by Henri Mouhot in the 19th century, and the myths that grew around the temple's abandonment. We also discuss the ongoing restoration efforts and the challenges of preserving Angkor Wat today, from looting to tourism to climate change. Featuring the voices of Zhou Daguan, the Buddha footprints, and the silent sandstone walls. #AngkorWat #KhmerEmpire #SuryavarmanII #Theravada #HenriMouhot #ZhouDaguan #Cambodia #Buddhism #Abandonment #Restoration #UNESCO #SiemReap #Devata #BasRelief #MountMeru #Looting #History #FexingoHistory Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo