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Bayon, Angkor, Cambodia
The Bayon is situated in the exact center of the city of Angkor Thom. Whereas Angkor Wat amazed us by its sheer imensity and architectural symmetry, the Bayon, with its 216 omnipresent faces, evoked a sense of mystery within us. Everywhere you look, you are watched over by the serene yet powerful faces that make the Bayon so famous. As we rode our bicycles through the Southern Gate of Angkor Thom, the Bayon appeared on the horizon and we were struck with an awe that must have been similiar to how the Khmers felt upon witnessing this same site 800 years ago.
Constructed during the reign of King Jayavarman VII between 1181 and 1219, the Bayon was built upon an earlier temple structure and underwent many changes and additiions to its |
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architectural layout. The faces of the Bayon are widely believed to have been designed in the likeness of King Jayavarman VII as a symbol of his omnipresence and power, however, some scholars believe the famous faces represent the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara (a compassionate being who could become a Buddha, but postpones his nirvana and elects to stay on earth to help mankind achieve enlightenment). The mystery behind the true meaning of these faces further enhances any visit to the already breathtaking Bayon. For us, it was truly a magical experience that our photographs below can never replicate. |
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View of southeast corner of the Bayon from within the outer wall. |
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View of southeast corner of the Bayon. |
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Detail of one of the everpresent faces of Bayon. |
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Some of the many towers decorated with the all seeing faces pointing to the four cardinal directions. |
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Detail of the many apsaras (heavenly dancers or celestial nymphs) that adorn the walls of the Bayon. |
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Another beautiful apsara. |
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Bas reliefs of the outer gallery depicting scenes of daily Khmer life. |
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Bas reliefs of the outer north gallery depicting circus jugglers and acrobats. |
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View of the south inner gallery showing traditional Khmer architectural features, including the Corbelled vault roof design, sandstone floor and the rows of supporting columns. Notice the wooden roof supports added during a recent restoration. |
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Close-up of one of the many towers of the Bayon. |
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Back to Angkor Introduction |
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