Nestled in the jungles of northwestern Cambodia is Angkor, a city that UNESCO calls one of the most important archaeological sites of Southeast Asia. As the capital of the Khmer Kingdom, this site offers exciting insight into the civilization, including its use of hydraulic structures and urban planning, as well as its art and architecture.

One notable structure is the temple Ta Prohm, originally called Rajavihara, meaning “monastery of the king.” It is striking not only for its construction but also for the way that, over time, it has become one with the surrounding jungle. While other monuments in Angkor have been protected from being overrun by trees, archaeologists have let nature run its course with Ta Prohm. The result is a beautiful marriage between man and Earth.