Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Angkor Wat is the pinnacle of Khmer architecture, originally constructed in the early 12th century as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu before gradually transforming into a Buddhist site. The temple complex covers 402 acres and represents Mount Meru, the mythical home of Hindu gods, with its five lotus-like towers rising 213 feet. Its extensive bas-reliefs, stretching for more than half a mile, depict Hindu mythology and historical events from the era of King Suryavarman II, who commissioned its construction. Angkor Wat is just one magnificent structure within the larger Angkor Archaeological Park, which contains the remains of different capitals of the Khmer Empire from the 9th to 15th centuries, including the famous Bayon Temple with its 216 serene stone faces and Ta Prohm, where massive tree roots intertwine with ancient stonework. The precise construction, perfect symmetry, grand scale, and intricate details of these monuments showcase the artistic and technical achievements of a civilization at its peak.