The Khmer Civilization
The Khmer or Cambodian civilization, although very little known, was nevertheless — through the Khmer Empire and the archaeological site of Angkor in Cambodia which testifies to this — a major power in Southeast Asia .
But what exactly is this civilization?
Dating back thousands of years, this civilization is believed to have begun in the pre-Angkorian period (before the rise of the Khmer Empire), with the creation of the Kingdom of Cambodia in the 1st century AD .
It was characterized by a sophisticated and highly developed culture, with a rich history and a legacy that continues to influence the region to this day.
According to legend, it was Queen Neang Neak , also known as the daughter of the King of the Nagas (mythical Hindu deities who are half-human and half-serpent), who was the first ruler of this country.
This was followed by the very powerful Khmer Empire, founded in 802 AD by King Jayavarman II .
An empire that reigned for several centuries over most of Southeast Asia and included Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, Malaysia and Burma.
One of the most remarkable achievements of the Khmer civilization was the construction of Angkor, a vast complex of temples that was the center of the Khmer empire.
The Angkor site consists of 200 temples located over more than 400 square kilometers and was the capital of the Empire from the 9th to the 14th century AD.
Angkor was home to a number of impressive temples, including the famous Angkor Wat , which is considered one of the most beautiful temples in the world.
Spread over a site of more than 162 hectares and built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II at the beginning of the 12th century, it is the largest temple and religious monument in the world.
A breathtaking archaeological site containing truly magnificent works of art.
Besides the construction of Angkor, the Khmer civilization was also known for its advanced system of government and highly developed society.
The Khmer Empire was ruled by a powerful and efficient monarchy, with a complex bureaucracy and a well-organized system of governance. The Khmers were also skilled farmers, artisans, and traders, and they played a key role in spreading Buddhism and Hinduism throughout Southeast Asia.
Despite its many achievements, Khmer civilization eventually declined in the 15th century, partly due to internal conflicts and external invasions by neighboring empires. Today, the legacy of Khmer civilization lives on in the art, architecture, and culture of modern Cambodia, and remains a source of pride and inspiration for the Cambodian people.
Overall, the Khmer civilization was a truly remarkable one that left a lasting impact on Southeast Asia and the world. Its rich history and enduring legacy continue to fascinate and inspire people worldwide, making it an important and compelling subject for anyone interested in world history.
An incredible civilization whose youth continue to create wonders today. If you want to discover a Made in Cambodia you never imagined , discover TEVOA , a new concept store and developer of premium Cambodian brands , by clicking the button below!