Angkor Wat is a temple complex in Cambodia and the largest religious monument in the world.
The modern name, Angkor Wat, means "Temple City" or "City of Temples" in Khmer.
It was originally constructed as a Hindu temple for the Khmer Empire, gradually transforming into a Buddhist temple toward the end of the 12th century.
It has become a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on its national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors.
According to legend, the construction of Angkor Wat was ordered by Indra to act as a palace for his son Precha Ket Mealea. According to the 13th century Chinese traveler Daguan Zhou, it was believed by some that the temple was constructed in a single night by a divine architect.
By 17th century, Angkor Wat was not completely abandoned and functioned as a Buddhist temple. Fourteen inscriptions dated from the 17th century discovered in Angkor area, testify to Japanese Buddhist pilgrims that might had established small settlements alongside Khmer locals.
Angkor Wat required considerable restoration in the 20th century, mainly the removal of accumulated earth and vegetation. Work was interrupted by the civil war and Khmer Rouge control of the country during the 1970s and 1980s, but relatively little damage was done during this period.
The temple is a powerful symbol of Cambodia, and is a source of great national pride.
Cambodia after dark and difficult years is experiencing a time of openness and peace.... Being pioneers in documenting a pre wedding and a marriage on this land, makes us very proud.
......................Cristiano and Stefania
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ostinelli studio, destination wedding photographers
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photo by Cristiano Ostinelli
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and
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Stefania Falcinella
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