Angkor National Museum, Siem Reap

Angkor National Museum, Siem Reap

The Angkor National Museum is an archaeological museum dedicated to the golden era of the Khmer Empire.

The Angkor National Museum is an archaeological museum dedicated to the golden era of the Khmer Empire. It showcases artifacts from the Khmer Empire's Angkor period dating from the 9th to 14th century, arranged chronologically to themes of religion and royalty. The Museum houses 8 galleries -

• Gallery of 1000 Buddha has images, figurines and relics of the Buddha made in wood, metal, and precious stones. Highlights include the Bayon-style Sumedha Hermit from 12th-13th century Phnom Veak, and the Buddha sheltered by Naga sculpture.
• Gallery A: Pre-Angkor Khmer Civilization traces the history of the Khmer Empire since its founding and the monumental structures they built. Of note is the Sambor Prei Kuk style Standing Vishnu from the 7th century found in the Kampong Speu Province.
• Gallery B: Religion and Beliefs explores the role of religion and beliefs during the Khmer civilization, including literary works, sculptures, architecture and daily life. A highlight is the Ganesha from the Preah Khan Temple.
• Gallery C: Great Khmer Kings has displays on famous Khmer kings, such as King Jayavarman II who united the two kingdoms of Tchenla in the 9th century, King Yasovarman I who established Angkor as the capital, King Suryavarman II who built Angkor Wat in the 12th century, and King Jayavarman VII who built Angkor Thom. Note the 10th century pink sandstone lintel from Banteay Srei with intricate reliefs of Hindu gods and vegetal motifs.
• Gallery D: Angkor Wat is dedicated to the history and architecture of Angkor Wat, and showcases pieces from the temple. See the Boddhisattva Lokesvara from the collapsed tower of the Beng Mealea temple.
• Gallery E: Angkor Thom has displays on the construction and expansion of Angkor Thom. Of note is the Prajnaparamita from the Preah Khan temple.
• Gallery F: Story from Stone showcases stele and stone inscriptions in ancient Khmer and Sanskrit found throughout Angkor that throw light on important historical events.
• Gallery G: Ancient Costume exhibits ancient Khmer clothing, jewelry and accessories of kings, warriors, and princesses.