Pha That Luang

Also known as the Great Stupa, the gold-coloured Pha That Luang is the most important Buddhist stupa in Laos and a national symbol. Apparently dating in its earliest form from the 3rd century, it was built on its current site in Vientiane by King Setthathirath in 1566. Even so, as a consequence of wars it has had to be rebuilt a number of times. It appears the top spire is gold plated, the rest is done in gold paint.