Have you ever wondered what it would be like to walk through a palace that once housed royalty? The Luangprabang National Museum, also known as Haw Kham, or ‘Golden Hall’, lets you do just that. It was built in 1904 by the French colonial power as a palace for King Sisavang Vong and his family. The palace was designed as a blend of traditional Lao architecture and French architectural styles. It truly is a beautiful building, with its intricate carvings and ornate details.
This grand building is now a museum where you can learn about the history of the Lao monarchy and the country’s rich cultural heritage. The museum exhibits a wide range of artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, religious objects, and royal furniture. Perhaps the most fascinating piece is the portrait of King Savang Vatthana. This colossal painting stretches from floor to ceiling, and some people claim that his eyes follow you as you walk by.
The palace was last used by the royal family in 1975 when the Lao People’s Democratic Republic was established, and the monarchy was abolished. The royal family was forced to move to a private residence near a temple, and the palace was turned into a museum.
The museum is made up of three main areas. There are the reception halls, where the main exhibits are displayed, including the throne room, the queen’s reception room, and the residential area. The reception halls have busts and paintings of the monarchy, religious items, gifts, and murals. You’ll even find the king’s elephant chair in this area.
The throne room is adorned with elaborate glass mosaics and paintings. Many of the rooms in the residential area are still furnished as they were when the royal family left in 1975.
The Luangprabang National Museum is an excellent place to learn about the history and culture of Laos. It is a must-see for anyone visiting Luang Prabang.