Laos is home to Luang Prabang, the ancient city that served as a royal capital.
Luang Prabang lies in northern Laos where the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers meet. It developed as a centre of Lao political power and Theravada Buddhist culture, and it remained the royal capital of the Kingdom of Laos until the monarchy ended in 1975.
The city’s built heritage combines traditional Lao architecture with buildings influenced by French colonial rule. Important landmarks include Wat Xieng Thong, a major Buddhist temple, and the former Royal Palace, now the National Museum.
Luang Prabang is sometimes confused with Vientiane, the modern capital of Laos. Vientiane is the country’s political capital, while Luang Prabang is the historic royal and religious centre. UNESCO added the town to its World Heritage List in 1995 because of its remarkably preserved urban and architectural character.