Cambodia Architecture

Several religious and secular architectures witnessed its development in the region of Cambodia during the ancient times. From the 9th to the 15th century, under the monarchy of the Khmer empire, several religious buildings were constructed with stones. The Architecture during the Angkor period was quite defined and specific, those which are still in use till date.

The motifs of Apsaras and devatas have always been an important element as far Architecture is concerned. Several celestial dancing apsaras, heavenly nymphs and female deities adorn the walls of the ancient temples which seem to be a part of the Indian mythological figures. The dancing apsaras can be witnessed at the Halls of Dancers while about 2000 devatas are found at the Angkor Wat.

Most of the architectures were fitted with blind doors and windows which helped in maintaining evenness in the entrance way. The central sanctuary is the place where the primary deity mainly resides. Colonettes were widely used as an embellishment along the doorways which can be seen in the ethnic architecture.

While speaking about the art and structural design, the Corbel arch is worth mentioning which was used in the south gate of Angkor Thom. The Corbel arch was made by adding stone layers to the walls with each layer pointing towards the middle. This is particular design concept which was followed by the natives whereby once the building had been abandoned it was easy to pull it down.

The Khmer temple is a brilliant example of architecture, which is confined on all ends by the concentric series of walls. The central sanctuary is the main attraction of the temple which is based in the middle. The gallery is a passageway along the enclosed wall with an opening to one or both sides. The temple is comprised of an entrance building which was once known as Gopura. The pediments of gopura are an excellent example of architecture which is adorned with guardian figures (dvarapalas) inscribed along its entryway.

The Hall of Dancers is yet another architecture which is situated in Ta Prohm, Preah Khan, Banteay Kdei and Banteay Chhmar. Some of the unique architectures are the House of Fire, or Dharmasala, set up in the temples of Jayavarman VII reign. Library can be widely seen in the Khmer temple architecture. Catch the glimpse of the Temple mountain architectures from the construction of Mount Meru, which seems to have been inspired by the Hindu mythology and from the Indian temple structural design. The patterns of mythical serpents or nagas are also an important feature as far as architecture.

Category: Cambodia Cultures