Victoria Xiengthong Palace: A Chapter of Laos’ Royal History

Located in the historic city of Luang Prabang, Laos, the luxe Victoria Xiengthong Palace is a harmonious marriage of traditional Lao urban architecture and French colonial design elements. The resort exudes charm and elegance, the embodiment of the beauty and sophistication of yesteryear.

Not just a luxury resort with fascinating architecture, Victoria Xiengthong Palace also serves to preserve the history of a bygone era.

The History of Victoria Xiengthong Palace.

Victoria Xiengthong Palace stands witness to an important historical and cultural period in Luang Prabang’s history. According to documents, the palace was built around 1904–1909 during the French colonial period as a residence for King Sisavang Vong and his family. Victoria Xiengthong Palace, together with the Royal Palace, now the National Museum of Luang Prabang, was at the time considered a symbol of the kingdom and the royal lineage of Laos. The location of these two buildings was carefully chosen, set on the peninsula where the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers meet, so that princes and dignitaries could easily dock when traveling by river boat to the palace.

Before becoming a Victoria resort embodying the beauty of Indochina, Victoria Xiengthong Palace and the Royal Palace were known to the world as the “Royal Residence Xieng Thong” (La Résidence Royale de Xieng Thong). The name reflects its status as the residence of the royal family and the close connection of the two buildings with the famous Xieng Thong Temple, located just next to Victoria Xiengthong Palace.

In their day, Victoria Xiengthong Palace and the Royal Palace were the sites of many important historical events and royal ceremonies and represented the royal authority of Laos. Today’s Victoria Xiengthong Palace used to be the residence of the Lao Royal Family, whereas the Royal Palace (now the National Museum) was used by the Royal Family to welcome distinguished guests and important officials.

With the passage of time and the fluctuations of history, the original splendor of Victoria Xiengthong Palace, as well as the Royal Palace, was allowed to fade. However, when the historical, cultural, and architectural values of both buildings were fully recognized, a period of restoration and preservation began. Through the dedication of artisans and craftsmen tasked with the restoration work, the original charm and magnificence of these two sites associated with the Lao Royal Family have been almost fully restored, making them the true jewels of Luang Prabang. Now, every time guests visit these two monuments, they can experience what the lifestyle of the Lao Royal Family must have been like as well as better understand a unique chapter of the history of the “Land of a Million Elephants”.

While preserving its original beauty, Victoria Xiengthong Palace today boasts the addition of many modern facilities, making it a true high-end resort that offers guests a very comfortable and relaxing stay. “The Royal Residence of Xieng Thong”, the building that served as the residence of the Lao Royal Family, was later renamed Victoria Xiengthong Palace. The property is part of the Victoria Hotels & Resorts chain, now a member of Thien Minh Group (TMG), a leading travel provider in the region operating in the four areas of Destination Management, Hotels, Online, and Aviation. Once the residence of the Lao Royal Family, Victoria Xiengthong Palace is now a luxe, high-end resort in the heart of the old town of Luang Prabang, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1995.

Today, Victoria Xiengthong Palace is not only a testament to the royal authority of Laos in times past; it’s also where “royal” memories are made for guests visiting the ancient capital of Luang Prabang. Like a bridge between the past and the present, Victoria Xiengthong Palace is where visitors can experience the culture and history of this stunning heritage city in a truly unique way.

Stepping back in time ( Laos’ Royal History )

Enjoying a prime setting next to the famed Wat Xiengthong temple, Victoria Xiengthong Palace is an ideal destination for guests looking to explore Luang Prabang’s many famous historical and cultural attractions. Its convenient location affords guests at Victoria Xiengthong Palace easy access to the city’s many temples, its heritage old town that’s steeped in culture and history, and the spiritual alms-giving ceremony of the Lao people in Luang Prabang.

The resort is home to spacious, luxe guest rooms, beautifully appointed to ensure that guests enjoy a comfortable stay. At the same time, with period-inspired wood furnishings, exquisitely carved wood detailing, and traditional Lao architecture, Victoria Xiengthong Palace showcases an authentic portrait of what royal life was like. For many guests fortunate enough to visit, a stay here is often the highlight of their trip to Luang Prabang.

At Victoria Xiengthong Palace, visitors can also immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape. Located right on the banks of the legendary Mekong River, the resort is ideal for admiring the gorgeous natural scenery with easy water access to visit the many riverside attractions of Luang Prabang. Within the resort grounds, the lush, peaceful gardens are perfect for quiet meditation and relaxation to recharge your inner battery.

The resort also offers a range of exclusive amenities. Can’t-miss experiences include taking a stroll by the water lily pond, savoring Lao and international specialties at Alamea Restaurant with views overlooking the Mekong River, relaxing with a massage, or enjoying a screening of the black-and-white documentary “Chang” with popcorn and drinks in hand. Additionally, guests often comment on the exceptional service rendered by the resort’s friendly and dedicated staff.

Whether looking for a romantic weekend getaway, a cultural experience or simply a quiet, relaxing retreat, Victoria Xiengthong Palace is always the ideal choice. Stylish surroundings, beautifully appointed with premium amenities, and a central location offering easy access to explore the local history and culture are what Victoria Xiengthong Palace is committed to offering guests in the heritage city of Luang Prabang.

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