Hor Lak Muang

After vast parts of Vientiane were destroyed when Siamese armies sacked the city in 1827, the original city pillar shrine of the Laotian capital was lost. But not too long ago, archaeologists discovered fragments of the original site dating back to the fourth or fifth centuries.

A new city pillar shrine, or Hor Lak Muang, was constructed on this ancient site in 2012. It now stands as a significant symbol of spiritual heritage in the capital of Laos.  The city pillar shrine is not only a religious site but also a cultural landmark that reflects the heart of Lao identity. 

The sandalwood pillar inside the shrine is believed to house guardian spirits which act as the protectors of the city.  Locals leave offerings at the shrine, asking for good fortune and good health. Hor Lak Muang is often bustling with activity, especially during festivals. Within the shrine are fragments of stone tablets also found during the archaeological excavations.

Many Thai and Laotian cities have these pillars, called lak muang, which provide a home for the city’s guardian spirits.