After captivating audiences for six enchanting nights at the Eras Tour concert in Singapore, Taylor Swift surprised fans in Southeast Asia by incorporating the Angkor Wat temple complex, a historic site in Cambodia, into one of her songs.
Taylor Swift has brought renewed attention to the historic Angkor Wat site in Cambodia with her song "Marjorie" from her album "Evermore". The music video was released during the COVID-19 outbreak on December 11, 2020, a time when many countries were dealing with the spread of the virus so it might be missed by some people.
With the song "Marjorie", Taylor Swift pays tribute to her grandmother, who explored the beauty of Angkor in the 1960s. The melodious lyrics and stunning visuals in the video showcase precious moments from the singer's life.
Marjorie Finlay, Taylor Swift's great-grandmother, was a renowned opera singer who passed away on June 1, 2003, at the age of 74. This captivating video presents poignant portraits of her grandmother's life journey, including her adventures in what was once known as the "Far East.
With over 12 million viewers, "Marjorie" has become a window to the world, introducing the magic of Angkor Wat to a global audience. The beauty of this ancient architecture not only holds deep historical significance but continues to captivate visitors from around the world.
Built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II (1112-1152 AD), Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Last year, Angkor Wat was recognized as one of the eight wonders of the world, surpassing Pompeii in Italy, according to a report by Time of India Travel.
The elegance of Angkor Wat's architecture led to its selection as one of the eight wonders of the world. The temple complex covers an area of approximately 500 acres and is surrounded by a large moat around the outer walls. The central part of the temple complex is a symmetrical wonder with five lotus-shaped towers symbolizing Mount Meru, the abode of the gods in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology.
The intricate bas-reliefs that adorn the walls of Angkor Wat can be likened to a visual narrative of the past, depicting various scenes from Hindu epics, historical events, and the daily life of Khmer society. Every detail in these carvings is truly mesmerizing, demonstrating the high skill and precision of the craftsmen involved in this monumental project.
Incorporating the Angkor site into her music is not only a tribute to her family's history, but also an effort to strengthen the cultural richness of Cambodia's historic landmark. This builds a deeper appreciation and understanding among their global audience.
