Preah Khan Angkor Cambodia

Preah Khan was a medieval city in Cambodia; its ruins are located just north of Angkor Thom, the capital of the Khmer Empire. Preah Khan was founded around 1190 A.D. by King Jayavarman VII, at the site of the king's victory over invaders from Champa.

In Hindu and Buddhist mythology, Garuda is a divine being that is part man and part bird. Invincible in battle, Garuda is the mount of Vishnu and the enemy of Nagas (or serpents). To Jayavarman VII, Garuda was a symbol of victory in war.

Among the ruins of Preah Khan one can still see many images of Garuda. Especially impressive are the massive stone sculptures along the outer wall of the city.