Vat Sisavang Ham Moung Khoun

Have you ever heard of a city pillar that’s a bit like a guardian angel? This is Vat Sisavang Ham Moung Khoun. It’s a temple that has been around for many years. This structure is meant to watch over Vientiane. Wat Sisavang Ham Moung Khoun was built in 1563. The temple was destroyed by the Siamese during their invasion in 1828. Wat Sisavang Ham Moung Khoun was reconstructed several times. The temple that you see today is a result of a reconstruction that started in 1915. It’s been said that it is the “mother temple” of Vientiane. The belief is that the temple helps to protect the city from evil spirits. It’s said that a young woman sacrificed herself to appease the spirits during the construction of the original temple. She was buried under a pillar that would become the heart of the city. The temple is divided into two rooms, it is unusual for Buddhist temples. The front room is a quiet space, and you can usually find a monk there to give blessings. The back room houses the main altar, which is full of statues and images of the Buddha. The temple is actually named after the woman who sacrificed herself. It’s not just the temple that’s special, but the area around it is too. You can find a statue of King Sisavang Vong located next door, that stands as a symbol of the city’s history. So as you stand here today, you’re not just looking at a building, you’re standing in a place of great spiritual importance. Just try and imagine how it’s been used for centuries to keep Vientiane safe and sound.