BAYON - Angkor Thom in Siem Reap, Cambodia

This is the posting of the final part of Bayon - Angkor Thom - Siem Reap, Cambodia.

The best of Bayon are the bas-reliefs on the exterior walls of the lower level and on the upper level where the stone faces reside. The bas-reliefs on the southern wall contain real-life scenes from the historical sea battle between the Khmer and the Cham.





































It is not clear whether this represents the Cham invasion of 1177AD or a later battle in which the Khmer were victorious.

Even more interesting are extensive carvings of unique and revealing scenes of everyday life that are interspersed among the battle scenes, including market scenes, cockfighting, chess games and childbirth.

Also note the unfinished carvings on other walls, likely indicating the death of Jayavarman VII and the subsequent end of his building campaign. Some of the reliefs on the inner walls were carved at a later date under the Hindu King Jayavarman VIII.

The surrounding tall jungle makes Bayon a bit dark and flat. Currently there is extensive work being done on some of galleries.

As mentioned, Bayon is a must for your visit if you are in Siem Reap for only a short stay. Our visit to Bayon was memorable. Bayon is impressive.