The Khmer Navy: Angkor's Hidden Maritime Empire

Angkor Wat is famous for its temples and rice fields, but did you know the Khmer Empire also ruled the waves? In this episode, Lucas and Luna explore the forgotten naval power of Angkor: from Suryavarman II's fleet that raided Champa and Dai Viet, to the war boats that transported armies across Tonlé Sap, to the deep-sea ships that traded with China, India, and the Malay world. Discover the bas-relief carvings of multi-decked warships at Angkor Wat, the strategic naval bases at the mouths of the Mekong, and the crucial role of the navy in maintaining the empire's far-flung tributary network. We also examine the decline of Khmer seapower after the 13th century, when shifting trade routes and Theravada Buddhism turned Angkor's gaze inland. This is the maritime side of an empire you thought you knew. #AngkorWat #KhmerEmpire #SuryavarmanII #NavalHistory #TonleSap #MekongDelta #Champa #DaiViet #IndianOceanTrade #JayavarmanVII #BasReliefs #WarBoats #MaritimeArchaeology #SoutheastAsiaHistory #FexingoHistory #History #AncientNavy #KhmerNavy Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo