Picture: wikipedia

Wat Xieng Thong is a small temple built in the year 1560 by mandate of King Setthathirath along the banks of the Mekong River and the Nam Khan River passing through the city of Luang Prabang, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Laos.

Picture: ractea

Wat Xieng Thong set is composed of more than 20 structures which include chapels, churches, ordination halls and stupas. So it is now considered one of the highest symbols of Buddhism in Laos which was the reason why it was spared from the plunder of 1887. Wat Xieng Thong major remodeling took place in the year 1960, trying to preserve its original essence, the roofs were repaired, painted carvings were restored, was awarded a golden color bath and mosaics were added.

Picture: mynextour

Picture: asiaplacestosee

The chariot of cremation occupies the entire space, leaving only a small hole next to the walls occupied by statues of Buddha. The walls are decorated with mosaics representing everyday scenes of life in Laos. The most important building of all who make up Wat Xieng Thong is the ordination Hall, main building decorated in wood and whose rear façade is the tree of life. One of the largest structures near the main temple is known by French historians such as La Chapelle Rouge, i.e. the Red Chapel. Inside is a bronze sculpture of reclining Buddha believed dates back to the origins of the temple Wat Xieng Thong.

Picture: laostours

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. There are over twenty structures on the grounds including a sim, shrines, pavilions and residences, in addition to its gardens of various flowers, ornamental shrubs and trees.

Phong Dzang – IndochinaKings