Foto: The Wat Xieng Thong temple in Luang Prabang (bron: Ronald van der Veer)
Laos - Luang Prabang is a large city in Laos, with more than 100,000 inhabitants. Yet I don’t feel overwhelmed as I walk along the main street in the city center. The historic center is located on a peninsula and is surrounded by high cliffs. On both sides of the main street, I find various Buddhist temples, each as beautiful as the next. At the end of the road, on the left side, lies the Wat Xieng Thong Temple. I enter the temple complex and am greeted by a young monk wearing a brand-new robe. He asks me where I’m from and what my name is, while trying to improve his English. His friend, who is studying Italian, is less fortunate and seems disappointed that I’m not an Italian tourist. The atmosphere in the temple is calm and peaceful. I see monks performing their daily tasks, such as tending the gardens and caring for the statues. The temple has a long history and is an important monument of Buddhist architecture and art in Laos. As I continue exploring the complex, I discover more stunning sights, such as golden stupas and intricate wall paintings. All around me, I hear the quiet chatter of monks speaking with one another. It feels as if I’ve stepped away from the hustle and bustle of the city and become immersed in the serene, spiritual atmosphere of the temple. Luang Prabang may be a large city, but its historic center still offers an oasis of peace and spiritual enrichment. The Buddhist temples that line the streets are a vital part of Laos’ rich culture and history—and a must-see for any visitor.
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