The Ancients The Khmer Empire: Angkor Wat
39 snips
Nov 30, 2025 
William Dalrymple, a historian and author known for his expertise in South Asian history, joins Tristan Hughes to unravel the rich tapestry of Indian influence on Southeast Asia. They discuss the decline of Roman-India trade that redirected merchants to the region, and the rise of powerful Indian trading guilds. Dalrymple highlights the cultural transmission of Hinduism and Buddhism, culminating in the majestic Angkor Wat. He details its architectural marvels, including its bas-reliefs telling epic tales and the strategic significance of Khmer civilization in history.
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Trade Pivot From Rome To Southeast Asia
- After Rome's eastern trade collapsed, Indian merchants pivoted east toward Southeast Asia.
- This pivot led to powerful Indian trading guilds settling in estuary ports and spreading Indian culture regionally.
Scale Of Angkor Wat And Greater Angkor
- Angkor Wat is the largest medieval religious structure and the biggest Hindu temple in the world.
- Archaeologists estimate greater Angkor held about 1.2 million people in the 12th century, far larger than contemporary London.
Guest Praises The Podcast
- William Dalrymple listens to The Ancients on repeat while driving the motorways in Britain.
- He calls it his favourite history podcast and enjoys looping episodes during drives.
