Savannakhet History: Exploring the Ancient City of Laos
Savannakhet, the second largest city in Laos, is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Located in the south-central part of the country, the city is home to some of the oldest archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. It is also known for its abundance of natural resources, including teak forests and abundant wildlife.
The city of Savannakhet dates back to the 4th century, when it was part of the powerful Kingdom of Lan Xang. The kingdom was founded in 1353 and was the first unified nation of Laos. During this time, the city was an important trading center and was the capital of the kingdom.
In the 16th century, the city was conquered by the Siamese and became part of the Kingdom of Siam. The city was then taken by the French in 1893 and became part of French Indochina. In 1945, the city was liberated by the Lao Issara movement and became part of the newly formed country of Laos.
Today, Savannakhet is a bustling city with a population of over 200,000 people. It is a popular tourist destination, with many attractions including ancient ruins, Buddhist temples, and French colonial architecture. The city is also home to several universities, including the Savannakhet University of Technology and the Savannakhet University of Agriculture and Forestry.
The city is home to many ancient archaeological sites, including the Xayaburi Temple, the oldest temple in Laos, and the Phu Pha Man archaeological site, which dates back to the 8th century. The city is also home to several historical monuments, including the Victory Monument, which commemorates the Lao Issara’s victory over the French in 1945, and the Lao-Vietnam Friendship Monument, which celebrates the friendship between Laos and Vietnam.
The city is also home to several museums, such as the Savannakhet National Museum, which houses artifacts from the city’s history, and the Savannakhet Cultural Center, which features traditional Lao art and culture. The city also has several parks and gardens, including the Thong Hai Hin Park and the Thong Hai Hin Garden.
Savannakhet is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. It is an ideal destination for those interested in exploring the ancient city of Laos. With its abundance of historical sites, cultural attractions, and natural resources, Savannakhet is sure to provide a memorable experience for all visitors.