Patouxai - Arch of Triumph

In the last days in Vientiane, we take the opportunity to visit some landmarks. One of the city’s most distinctive monuments is the Patouxai, reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile in Paris, located at the end of Xang Boulevard.

'Patuxai was built in the 1960s as a 'Monument to the Heroes of the Royal Army', symbolizing Laos' independence from France. ... When the Pathet Lao took power in 1975, the massive concrete structure went nameless for 20 years. Generally, it was simply known as Anousavali (Monument). On the 20th anniversary of the takeover in 1995, the arch was re-dedicated as 'To the Heroes of August 23, 1975' (the day of the takeover in Vientiane).

The monumental construction remains unfinished to this day, despite repeated funding from the Laotian government. Cement that the USA originally intended for building an airfield for the Vietnam War was used here. Additionally, construction materials were diverted to other projects and used in villas and residential houses.

Currently, the structure is primarily interesting for tourism. Visitors can pay to access the upper platforms, which offer panoramic views of the city.'

(https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patuxai)

To conclude, we let ourselves be inspired by the many joyful people here who are having fun. Anja willingly poses for a group photo with two Filipino migrant workers.