Description of the attraction
"Gate of Victory" - this is how the name of the Patusay triumphal arch is translated, which is one of the most striking sights of Vientiane.
The arch was built in the late 60s of the last century in the image of a similar structure in Paris. However, it is decorated in a traditional Lao style. The architect of the building, Tam Sayastsen, made it several meters higher than the French original and decorated it with five turrets, which symbolize Buddhist commandments, and images of lotuses and mythological creatures.
At first, the triumphal arch was called "Memory" in honor of those soldiers who died fighting the French for the independence of Laos. When the Communist Party came to power, the arch acquired its current name.
Adjacent to the triumphal arch is Patusay Park, which, in addition to palm groves and flower beds with exotic flowers, has a musical fountain presented to Laos by the Chinese. Interestingly, there is a pond with greenish water on each side of the Patusay Arch. It turns out that, according to the architect's idea, the arch itself is located as if in the center of a lotus flower. Water flows into the pond from several sculptures installed on its facade, that is, the arch is part of the fountain.
You can climb to the observation deck at the base of the turrets by one of two staircases. The platform offers an amazing view of one of the most elegant streets of the Lao capital Lang Sang and a beautiful park. On the first floor of the arch there is the directorate of this building and a small souvenir shop. The second floor is reserved for the exposition of the patriotic museum.
