Bayon, Cambodia

Bayon is an ancient temple in the center of Angkor Thom, Cambodia.   It was the last temple built at Angkor.  The temple is famous for its smiling faces.

What is Bayon?

• Bayon was built as the state temple of the King Jayavarman VII, a king of the Khmer Empire from 1181 to 1218. He was strongly devoted to Buddhism and built the Bayon as a result of his devotion.
• The Bayon was the last temple built at Angkor.
• Numerous smiling faces are depicted on the towers of the Bayon, making this temple distinctively different from the others in the area.

When was it built?

The Bayon was built at the end of the 12th century – beginning of the 13th century.

Where is it located?

Bayon is an ancient temple of the Angkor Thom, an ancient city of the Khmer Empire. Angkor Thom was established in the twelfth century by King Jayavarman VII.

The Bayon is located close to the other structures of Angkor Thom, including the Terrace of the Elephants, the Terrace of the Leper King, and the Baphuon. It’s quite easy to reach the Bayon as it is located right in the center of Angkor Thom, with the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King to the north and the Baphuon to the northwest of the Bayon.

Bayon through the photos

Bayon is known for the smiling faces depicted on the towers. As you walk through the temple, enjoy the beautifully preserved structures and the serenity of the faces.