Introduction to Angkor Wat: Angkor Wat is also known as Angkor Temple and Little Angkor. Its original name is VrahVishnulok, which means "Temple of Vishnu". It was built in the 12th century as a temple of Angkor Wat. It is the best preserved temple among the ancient monuments. Of all the Angkor temples, Angkor Wat is unique in that it is oriented towards the west. The West symbolizes death, so many experts believe that Angkor Wat originally existed as a tomb. Some scholars speculate that Angkor Wat is the royal tomb of Suryavarman II.