The Precious Temple of Laos
In the town of Luang Prabang in northern Laos stands the magnificent temple of Wat Xieng Thong, often called the Temple of the Golden City.
The Buddhist sanctuary was built on the orders of King Setthathirath around 1560. The golden monastery is considered a model of classical Lao religious architecture and one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the country.
Golden facades and sweeping roofs
Wat Xieng Thong is known for its multi-tiered roofs that sweep low towards the ground, its wood carving and the reliefs on its walls. The facade of the main hall is covered with gold and decorated with refined paintings and Buddhist ornaments.
The wooden columns inside the temple are covered with gilded stencilled patterns.
On the walls, colourful glass mosaics depict birds, animals and scenes in green and purple tones.
The carved details of the building are covered with gold.
Golden Buddhas and the royal chapel
Inside the temple there are several gilded statues of the Buddha of different sizes.
One of the sacred relics of Wat Xieng Thong is a large gilded statue of the seated Buddha.
The temple grounds also include the royal funeral carriage house, richly decorated with gilded carvings. Luang Prabang itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Wat Xieng Thong is one of its most visited monuments, attracting thousands of tourists every year.
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