Laos | Luang Prabang

Wat Xieng Thong Temple Luang Prabang

Southeast Asia Tour 2015

Luang Prabang | Laos

10 Dec 2015 | Thu

Day 22 of 46

  • Wat Xieng Thong Temple Luang Prabang
  • Luang Prabang National Museum
  • Bamboo Bridge to Pizza Phan Luang

Wat Xieng Thong Temple Luang Prabang

The Wat Xieng Thong Temple is a beautiful example of traditional Lao architecture, located in the heart of Luang Prabang. It is one of the oldest and most important temples in Laos, with a long history that dates back to the 16th century. This ancient temple was built as an expression of reverence for King Setthathirat’s reign, who established his capital at this location. The temple was also thought to be a royal residence during this time period.

Wat Xieng Thong Temple Luang Prabang

Wat Xieng Thong Temple has stood as a symbol of Buddhism in Luang Prabang over the centuries and is still revered by locals today. Visitors can explore its intricate design and ornately painted walls while admiring its beauty from inside or outside the grounds. The main chapel features paintings depicting Buddhist mythology, while statues and sculptures are found throughout the complex.

Wat Xieng Thong (Lao: ວັດຊຽງທອງ; “Temple of the Golden City”) is a Buddhist temple (vat or wat) on the northern tip of the peninsula of Luang Phrabang, Laos.  Built between 1559 to 1560 by King Setthathirath, Wat Xieng Thong is one of the most important of Lao monasteries and remains a significant monument to the spirit of religion, royalty and traditional art.

Wat Xieng Thong was built under the rule of King Setthathirath between 1559 and 1560.  Setthathirath oversaw the Lan Xang (“Land of a Million Elephants”) kingdom, a geographical area that is now Laos.[3]: 6  During his rule, Setthathirath moved the capital from Xieng Thong (which was later renamed Luang Prabang) to Vientiane, claiming dislike for the lack of flat land in Xieng Thong.  But, Luang Prabang remained a royal capital until 1975, when the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (LPDR) was established.

– Wikipedia Wat Xieng Thong

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