Suryavarman II

Suryavarman II was a prominent king of the Khmer Empire in Southeast Asia, ruling from 1113 to 1150 AD. He is best known for commissioning the famous Angkor Wat temple, which originally served as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu and later became a Buddhist site. Under his leadership, the Khmer Empire expanded significantly, achieving advancements in architecture, art, and irrigation. Suryavarman II's reign is often regarded as a high point in Khmer culture, showcasing the empire's wealth and sophistication during the medieval period. His legacy continues to influence Cambodia's national identity today.