Wat Xieng Thong Temple
Wat Xieng Thong is a Laotian Buddhist temple in the ancient capital LuangPrabang and was built by King Setthathirat in 1560. It plays an important role in the psychic life of Laotians. Wat Xieng Thong means the "monastery of the Golden City", one of the higher symbols of Buddhism in Laos.
This place is built in a particular architectural style of Laos, with a curved roof that nearly touches the ground. There are also a number of smaller temples, built in the same style.
Wat Xieng Thong keeps a famous reclining Buddha statue, once in the Paris museum.
Crossing many historical events, this temple was almost destroyed. In 1960, it was restored on a large scale, and now is like days of old.
After the fall of Monarchy in Laos, Wat Xieng Thong was longer the royal temple, but is still very important for Laotians.
From its entrance tourists, can easily see a small temple on the left and a royal carriage inside. This carriage was used by King Sisavong. It is very grandiose and elegant.
Talented artists have made the mural paintings that tell about mysterious stories of Buddhism.
During the main festivals, Wat Xieng Thong becomes really lively and crowded, especially when there are many people visiting the Golden Buddha statue and participating in the Buddha Bathing Ceremony .
Because of the beautiful architecture and its original festivals, Wat Xieng Thong has become a celebrated temple that fascinates most visitors.
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Wat Xiengthong temple - Luang Prabang