The Khmer Empire of ancient Cambodia, which flourished from the 9th to the 15th century, gave birth to some of the world's richest works of art and architecture. At its peak in the 12th century, Khmer civilization extended throughout continental Southeast Asia and culminated in the construction of the magnificent temple of Angkor Wat, the walled city of Angkor Thom and the temples of the Bayon. The whole culture was influenced by the language and religions (both Hinduism and Buddhism) inherited from India, but Khmer art soon adapted those models into its own highly original work - the glorious monuments and expessive sculpture that form part of its heritage.