Prasat Preah Vihear Cambodia
Preah Vihear temple is a tranquil place, which stands in the vicinity of the borderline between Thailand and Cambodia. Besides its complex history, the site is exceptional for the quality of its Khmer architecture, in terms of carved stone ornamentation and relationship to the spectacular landscape environment. The view from this place over the endless natural treasure of Preah Vihear province is absolutely breathtaking, with acres of dense, hilly forests and scrub green vegetation.
The most iconic ancient temples of Cambodia. Situated on the edge of a plateau that dominates the plain of Cambodia, the Temple of Preah Vihear is dedicated to Shiva. The Temple is composed of a series of sanctuaries linked by a system of pavements and staircases over an 800 metre long axis and dates back to the first half of the 11th century AD. Nevertheless, its complex history can be traced to the 9th century, when the hermitage was founded. This site is particularly well preserved, mainly due to its remote location. The site is exceptional for the quality of its architecture, which is adapted to the natural environment and the religious function of the temple, as well as for the exceptional quality of its carved stone ornamentation.
The temple was listed in UNESCO world heritage in 2008. It is one of the most well-known iconic of Cambodia history, comparable to Angkor Wat. It is a must see location if you visit Cambodia and want to see the impressed history. However, there is still a conflict of claiming territory somewhere around the temple area with Thailand. This matter is settled by ICJ, favouring Cambodia in 2011.
