The ancient city of Angkor lies in the middle of the Cambodian jungle. The city was abandoned in the 14th century and forgotten for over 400 years until a French scientist accidentally discovered its ruins in 1860. Founded in 802 and constructed over several successive reigns during the Khmer Empire, this city was called "the largest religious structure in the world," since it was more than 100 km2 in size! Its walls were decorated with magnificent sculptures illustrating Hindu mythology. To protect the sanctuary, the perimeter of the city was surrounded by a wide moat filled with crocodiles. We know who lived in Angkor thanks to an engraved inscription inside the temple: "This is the home of 400 men, 18 highpriests, 2,740 officers, and 2,223 others, including 615 dancers. In all: 12,640 people, counting those with the right to dwellings."
