Patuxay (Victory Monument)

Frommer's Review

This monument was completed in 1968 and dedicated to those who fought in the war of independence against the French. Ironically, the monument is an arch modeled on the Parisian Arc de Triomphe. Its detailing is typically Lao, however, with many kinnari figures -- half woman, half bird. It's an imposing sight, and you can climb up for a good city view. Once on top, numerous signs forbid the use of cameras (government paranoia, perhaps), but no one seems to take heed. This is the town's main teenage strutting ground and is crowded on weekends.

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