Ancient towers of Bayon emerge from the jungle, their serene stone faces half‑swallowed by vines and fallen blocks. Once the spiritual heart of Angkor Thom, this richly carved Buddhist state temple has weathered centuries of neglect, looting, and political upheaval. Today, the crumbling galleries and enigmatic smiles still guard the lost royal city, inviting visitors to wander through a maze of history and myth.
![Reference: A l’école des diplomates: La perte et le retour d’Angkor [At the School for Diplomats – The Loss and Return of Angkor]](https://i0.wp.com/wondersofcambodia.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/image-106.png?fit=553%2C790&ssl=1)
