Angkor: Downfall

| Introduction | Architecture | Religion | Downfall | Present Situation |

After reading of such a powerful civilization, it is difficult to imagine its downfall. The magnificent palaces and temples came at a great expense, both financially and time wise. When Buddhism became the official religion of the Khmer rebuilding temples began, so they would be Buddhist. This weakened the economy and other surrounding civilizations took advantage of it.

In 1431 the Thai kingdom, west of Cambodia, invaded and captured the western part of the Khmer empire, including Angkor. The Khmer fled Angkor and established a new capitol 150 miles away at Phnom Penh. As time passed the great beauty and vastness of Angkor was forgotten, and the city gave in to the powerful jungle.

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