Pha That Luang - Vientiane, Laos - Ornate Buddhist Pavilion

An intricately decorated red-and-gold Buddhist pavilion sheltering a small sacred monument within the Pha That Luang complex in Vientiane.

This photograph shows an ornate Buddhist pavilion within the Pha That Luang complex in Vientiane, Laos. Its elaborate multi-tiered roof is richly decorated in red and gold, with sweeping gables, pointed finials and intricate ornamental patterns surrounding the open-sided structure. Beneath the roof stands a small stupa-like sacred monument, while part of Pha That Luang’s golden architecture can be seen along the left side of the image. Decorative pavilions and religious structures throughout the complex reflect the distinctive forms and elaborate ornamentation associated with Lao Buddhist architecture. Pha That Luang, or the Great Sacred Stupa, is regarded as the most important national cultural monument in Laos and has become an enduring symbol of both Lao Buddhism and national identity. The principal stupa was constructed in 1566 under King Setthathirath and was subsequently restored several times following periods of damage and decline. While the great golden stupa dominates the site, smaller architectural details such as this pavilion reveal the remarkable craftsmanship found throughout the sacred complex.