The world premiere of “Angkor: The Lost Empire of Cambodia” exhibition debuted at the California Science Center February 16, 2022. Through 120 original artifacts - half on tour outside Cambodia for the first time – and hands-on exhibits, guests used the lens of science to explore the ancient empire of Angkor. Once considered the most extensive metropolis in the world, Angkor houses over 100 temples, now mysteriously quiet and surrounded by the dense Cambodian forest.

“Angkor: The Lost Empire of Cambodia,” developed by Museums Partner in collaboration with the California Science Center, the National Museum of Cambodia, and the Cambodian Ministry of Culture, uses science to reveal insights into the rise and fall of ancient Angkor as well as its enduring legacy.

Mysteries of ancient Angkor: The vast metropolis of Angkor, now shrouded by jungle in present-day Cambodia, was once the center of one of the greatest empires the world has ever seen. Enormous monuments to the gods such as Angkor Wat are among the most remarkable achievements in all of human history, and towered over sprawling cities made of wood which, over the centuries, have vanished almost without a trace.

The reasons for the precipitous decline of Angkor, and the cultural resilience of the Khmer people who built it, have fascinated scientists for one and a half centuries. Thanks to new advances in science and technology including ground excavations, aerial mapping, and modern remote sensing, we are finally coming to terms with the vast scope and accomplishments of this empire. In this exhibition, explore the art and artifacts of ancient Angkor through the lens of science. Experience how each period of exploration and discovery – equipped with the cutting-edge tools of the day – has expanded our knowledge about this civilization. Through the lens of Khmer culture, discover the meaning and significance of what science has revealed, and the foundation of Angkor’s enduring resilience.

Sources: <a href="https://californiasciencecenter.org/press-room/pressrelease/2022-01-06/world-premiere-of-angkor-the-lost-empire-of-cambodia-exhibition" rel="noreferrer nofollow">californiasciencecenter.org/press-room/pressrelease/2022-...</a>