You came to a split in the road….

…and the Apsara-crew took the road less travelled, because they make all the difference.

To manage, develop and maintain the vast human cultural treasure of the Angkor Park, the Apsara Authority was established back in 1995.

It has ha monumental task, literally speaking, taking care of the approximately 420 km2 area of the main Angkor Archaeological Park. It contains more than 70 larger temple sites, and over 1000 smaller sites and remains.

Important task and employer
Easy recognisable with their green uniforms, the Apsara Maintenance staff are making the visit into the Angkor Archaeological Park and sites possible, safe and accessible. It is a highly respected and important effort on behalf of Cambodia’s long and proud history, civilisation and culture. And of course, the common human historic value as a World Cultural Heritage site for the rest of us.

With over 3 000 employees, the Apsara Authority is the largest single employer in the Siem Reap province.

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Bringing food for mommy

A memory from my first visit to Angkor Wat. This couple, I guess brother and sister, had their priority and duty clear this early fall day in the green season of 2011CE.

It was bringing lunch to mommy, one of the Apsara maintenance staffers at Angkor Wat. Making sure the maintenance and operation of the 8th Wonder of the World was smoothly and efficient.

State Temple, tomb, now Wat
Angkor Wat was original a royal state temple built in honour of the Hindu god Vishnu in the mid-12th Century CE. It is a tomb for the God King Suryavarman II too.
As a usurper, he needed to show his right to the throne by building this enormous religious building. It is still the largest and probably the most famous religious buildings in our common human cultural heritage.

Later it was converted to a Buddhist temple and monastery for religious worship and learning, a “Wat”.

Classic combination
Angkor Wat represents two architectural styles for Hindu temples. We have the temple mountain as a reminder of the 5 sacred Meru mountain, home of the Hindu gods. And the later galleried temple.

The galleries are even more interesting than usual. In addition to honour the gods and religious rites, it is the history of the reign of a powerful emperor.

This is one of the temples in Angkor Park where it is highly advisable to have a guide on your first visit. The size is easier to understand when you have some knowledgeable to show the important highlights and the best photo spots.

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