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Wat Xieng Thong (Luang Prabang)
#521 Globally

☸️ Wat Xieng Thong (Luang Prabang)

Laos

About This Sacred Site

Wat Xieng Thong ('Temple of the Golden City') is the most magnificent temple in Luang Prabang and one of the finest examples of Lao Buddhist architecture. Built in 1560 by King Setthathirath, the temple features sweeping multi-tiered roofs, intricate glass mosaics, and a stunning 'Tree of Life' mosaic on its rear wall. Located at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, the temple served as the royal temple of the Lao monarchy and was the site of coronation ceremonies. It is part of the UNESCO-listed town of Luang Prabang.

Key Facts

  • β€’Built in 1560 by King Setthathirath
  • β€’Features a famous 'Tree of Life' glass mosaic on the rear wall
  • β€’Served as the coronation temple of the Lao monarchy
  • β€’Part of the UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang (1995)
  • β€’Contains a royal funeral chapel with an ornate gilded hearse

Location

Coordinates: 19.8942, 102.1369

Quick Info
Religion
Buddhism
Country
Laos
Established
1560
Annual Visitors
300,000+
Significance
Laos's most revered royal temple and a masterpiece of Lao Buddhist art and architecture
Coordinates
Lat: 19.8942
Lng: 102.1369
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