Photos: The Wonders of Siem Reap

This week we are sharing some more photos of the incredible temples of Siem Reap, Cambodia.  This is one of the 218 heads carved into the Presat Bayan temple.                              

The banyon trees have dropped roots from the canopy down to some of the jungle temples, resulting in the roots in some places growing into what appears to be large tree trunks crawling over the temples.

Tree roots are, of course, destructive of man made objects, and these temples are no exception.  While the jungle trees add to the atmosphere of the jungle temples, if there is not a plan to limit them, they will continue to do damage to the ancient Khmer temples.

There are lots of areas where you can explore temples with seemingly no one else around.  This is a much better experience than being led around in a group tour.  Hopefully the access that the public has to these temples will not be abused through graffiti or other damage.

We would rate the temples of Siem Reap in the same category as the monuments of ancient Egypt, Petra, Greece or Rome.  They are an architectural treasure that deserves protection.  Thankfully, the horrible atrocities of the war and dictatorship have ended in Cambodia and the last dozen or so years have brought a thriving tourist industry.  Hopefully, the increased awareness and revenue from the tourism will result in measures to preserve the temples.