Beng Mealea
For most people, when they think of Cambodian jungle temples, Angkor Wat comes to mind first. The secret temple of Beng Mealea, however, is located around 77 kilometers (48 miles) to the northwest, in a little community that is removed from the popular tourist destinations. This magnificent temple, which is said to have been built some 900 years ago, is much less frequently visited than its more well-known neighbor.
Beng Mealea, a 14-hectare complex with sculptures, statues, columns, and ponds, was proposed as a potential UNESCO World Heritage Site by the Cambodian government in 2020. The site has suffered significant harm as a result of natural deterioration and other reasons. Due to this degradation, the temple's surrounds have overtaken it and merged with its incredible human architecture.
- Country: Cambodia
