Cambodia and its temples (1)

There are sites that make you dream. Even if you are not versed in history and geography, it is very likely that you will recognize the temples of Angkor including that of Ta Prohm.

At least if you followed the adventures of Angelina Jolie alias Lara Croft in Tomb Raider, a scene of which was filmed on the site of the Ta Prohm temple.

In the heart of the vegetation, it is probably the most photographed temple in Cambodia. The most photogenic also with its trees which slowly destroy the wonders built by the hand of man.

It was a choice made voluntarily by archaeologists during the rediscovery of the temple at the beginning of the 20th century: to leave it as it was, to bear witness to the power of nature.

In recent years, the construction of footbridges and ramps has proven necessary to channel the flow of tourists and protect (at least a little) the temple. So now you have to follow the signposted circuit, platforms in front of the trees allow you to take photos...

With the tourist making selfies it’s hard to believe you’re still in a universe worthy of the adventures of Indiana Jones!

But with a little imagination, and by choosing the time of the visit carefully, you quickly fall under the spell of this place, a former monastery and Buddhist school, built by King Jayavarman VII to also serve as a residence for his mother.

 

 

 

Attacks at the end of the 13th century by the Siamese army ruined and robbed the temple of its riches. Only a few sculptures still bear witness to its former beauty.

 

 

 

If the desire during the discovery of the Ta Prohm temple was to leave it as it is, conservation and restoration work is still being carried out.

Time and nature continue their slow destructive work, creating a mysterious atmosphere.