The exceptional wealth from the Angkor period is not limited to archaeological and artistic remnants, it includes a still living cultural heritage of incalculable value in the hundreds of villages scattered throughout the world-famous ‘City of Temples’. Many traditional cultural practices that have disappeared elsewhere are still being performed in these villages, reflecting the scope of the rich historical heritage of the Angkor region. The holy temples play a large part in those ancient traditions, including a largely unknown cremation ritual unique to the Angkorians. Like the intricate carvings etched into the temple's stone walls, this ritual is ingrained into the cultural lives of the senior villagers.