Besides being the largest center of culture, economy, politics of Laos, the capital Vientiane is also a famous tourist city. This owns a lot of beautiful landscapes, especially ancient temples and pagodas. Referring to Laos, we often think of That Luang. However, Wat Phra Keo is not less famous.
Situated in the capital Vientiane, Wat Phra Keo, also known as Haw Phra Kaew is very famous for its Emerald Buddha Statue. In the past, it is the place where Royal family went to pray.
It was built in 1565 under the reign of King Setthathirat after his throne to store and protect Emerald Buddha Statue and the place for royal family to pray. Inside Pra Keo Buddha Statue is worshipped.
This place used to be invaded by Siamese Troops. In 1779 the Emerald Buddha was also stolen by them. In 1828 the pagoda was completely flattened. From 1936 to 1942, Prince Souvanna Phouma ordered to rebuild the pagoda. Later he was the first prime minister of Laos.
Wat Phra Keo is a unique architecture, bears sharply the traditional culture of Laos. It was built on the rock, along the stairs there are two stone dragons finely carved in every detail according to Lao architecture.
Now, visitors to the pagoda will have the opportunity to admire Buddha statues in many different materials such as copper, terracotta, stone… look sharp and delicate.
The special thing here is that every Buddha statue brings different beauties, attitudes and facial expressions, no one is the same. It creates the diversity and originality for this place. Besides, these statues were covered in gold at some positions such as head, abdomen, chest … with the meaning of shelter and protection for Laotians and hope them happiness.
