Moat around Angkor Wat - Siem Reap

Cultural Heritage Climate

Storage for water

Created at: 12 Oct 2024

Description

The moat surrounding Angkor Wat is an essential part of the temple's original 12th-century design, helping to control groundwater levels, prevent erosion. It also acted as a defensive feature, providing protection from potential invaders. More importantly, it had a symbolic meaning, representing the cosmic ocean surrounding Mount Meru, a sacred mountain in hindu and Buddhist cosmology, which the temple was meant to represent.

Today, modern water management measures, such as the Osampov Loun watergate located to the north, help regulate water flow into the moat. These interventions ensure a balance between preserving the temple's foundation and controlling seasonal flooding, safeguarding this UNESCO World Heritage site from water-related damage while maintaining its historical significance.

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Ruben Matahelumual

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