Wat Wisunalat, Luang Prabang

Wat Visoun, also known as Wat Wisunalat, is not only the oldest Buddhist temple in Luang Prabang but also one of the most renowned attractions in the city. Its rich history, cultural significance, and distinctive architecture make it a must-visit site for tourists.

Originally constructed in 1513 during the reign of King Visoun, who ruled Laos from 1501 to 1520, Wat Visoun showcases beautiful architectural elements. However, the temple suffered a devastating fate in 1887 when it was destroyed by the Black Flag Army, a group of marauders of Chinese origin who ravaged Luang Prabang. They looted the temple, carrying away precious Buddha images made of jade, gold, and precious gems, by breaking the stupa that housed them.

Wat Visoun holds another notable historical association as it was the original home of the revered Phra Bang Buddha. The Phra Bang Buddha resided in the temple from 1513 until 1707 before being relocated to the Royal Palace Museum. Today, Wat Visoun serves as the city's Museum of Religious Arts, preserving the cultural and religious heritage of Luang Prabang.

Inside the temple hall, visitors can admire a small collection of gilded Buddha statues and ancient stones dating back to the 15th century. The hall also features informative plaques in both Lao and English, providing insights into the history and iconography of the Buddhist statues. These plaques offer an opportunity to understand the various poses of the Buddha images and the artistic influences that shaped their design.

One of the prominent features of Wat Visoun is its uniquely shaped stupa, which was designed by the wife of King Wisunarat. While intended to resemble a lotus flower, the rounded dome of the stupa has led locals to affectionately refer to it as the "watermelon stupa."