This stage of the renovation will see the main chapel of the chapel get an exterior and interior facelift and structural reinforcement. Support pillars, flooring, walls, doors and window shutters will be repaired and renewed. Fans, lighting and electric cabling is also set to be ripped out and replaced during this phase,
The US chipped in US$125,000 last year to get the Vat Visounnarath renovation project off the ground. This funded roof repairs and the renewal of ornate decorations on the main chapel. Once stage II is complete, the next step will see the iconic Lotus Stupa, the main gate, exterior walls and footpaths get a makeover.
Vat Visounnarath is at the heart of Luang Prabang’s attractions. It was originally constructed in the early 16th century but, following a fire in the 1880s, needed a major renovation. The main building was rebuilt to the original specifications and historians say it is a classical example of Luang Prabang architecture.
US to fund second phase of historic Luang Prabang temple revamp
News in Asia
Culture officials in Luang Prabang have announced that the US has approved the funding needed to help restore the city’s oldest temple. Culture Department boss Sisavad Yeladchai told media sources the US had agreed to pay US$132,000 to complete the second phase of the Vat Visounnarath restoration.