Historically, Khmer empire stretches from current day Cambodia to Indochina and the peninsula of Malaysia. This magnificent and complex civilization dating back in the 9th century left remarkable ruins for many of to explore. Through these ruins, we would left in awe as these temples were striking and its architecture that is rich of history and symbolism. Aside from its architecture, another fun fact is that Khmer empire was also regarded even bigger than the Byzantine Empire. Today, the Khmer legacy can be found in Cambodia and some tiny parts of Thailand.

One of the most intriguing part that I came to learned and finally fitting all the puzzle together was when I found out that the King who laid foundation of Khmer, Jayavarman II spent sometime in Java( Indonesia) during the Sailendra Dynasty (the Dynasty that built the magnificent Borobudur temple). It can be argued that his experiences in Java influenced the way he reigned and building Khmer Empire, a much younger nation than the Sailendra Dynasty. During his reign, he managed to increase the size of his empire and built many magnificent temples that today people can see in the modern Cambodia. It can also be seen that many temples in Cambodia are similar to Java.

The Ancient Angkor, written by Michael Freeman, a geographer, author and photographer with his interest and expertise of Angkor, wrote the book comprehensively and could be a guide for anyone who wishes to visit the sites around. Accompanied by Claude Jaques, who co-author the book, Ancient Angkor is such a treat especially to a history buff.

Freeman and Jaques, not only provides remarkable photography but also a little introduction to the history, the kings who reigned and the architecture of the temple. The book is a handy guide for anyone who wished to visit Cambodia. With the book in hand, one could get much more information and be well-informed about the temple.

Even as a regular reader and if you have interest in history, architecture and ancient-civilization, Ancient Angkor is such a fascinating read and a gateway to learn one of the most prosperous and historical ancient civilization.

I personally have quite extensive knowledge of the Indonesian ancient temples and kingdoms. This book was the book I needed and answered many of my curiosity as I find many connections, similarities and how shapes, mythologies, folklore are interpreted either in Thailand, Laos even Cambodian side. As a history buff, I would definitely recommend this book to read. I was so lucky to found it at the hostel I was staying in Laos. But it seems like you can get this book from Amazon too.