Vientiane, Lao PDR
September 3, 2016

The Presidential Palace is located near the Patuxai Memorial Monument along Long Xang Avenue. It is a well-known landmark for its imposing yet elegant beau arts-style architecture complete with tall colonnades and shaded balconies. The building is surrounded by well-manicured lawns and gardens, and fenced off by tall walls and a wrought iron gate.

The elegant building was first started in 1973 by the then Royal Lao government on the grounds that used to house the royal residence. It was designed by local architect Khamphuong Phonekeo, but due to political change brought about by the takeover of the communist Pathet Lao in 1975, the building was not completed until much later.

The Presidential Palace finally opened its doors in 1986 and even then only as a venue for government functions and ceremonies. The building is closed to the public.

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