Facelift planned for Vientiane's Emerald Hall
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Laos will renovate the historic site of Hor Pha Keo (the Emerald Hall), where the Emerald Buddha used to sit before the destruction of Vientiane more than two centuries ago.
A special ceremony for donations to the project and auspicious alms-giving will take place at the Hor Pha Keo museum in Vientiane on Friday and Saturday to initiate the renovation of one of the most historically significant sites in Laos.
The ceremony will be open to the public, who will help launch further restoration of this small but much-loved repository of Lao antiquities. The structure was originally built in 1565 and has been treasured by the people of Laos over the centuries.
The committee in charge of fund-raising said a vast amount of money would be needed for the renovation.
While some of the funds will come from visitor admission fees, the committee is hopeful that the public will contribute generously to this preservation effort.
The museum contains several important Buddha images and other artefacts. The building formerly housed the Emerald Buddha, but it was destroyed by Siamese forces in 1828 and rebuilt in 1942.
The museum is now in poor condition, especially the roof, and several support structures have collapsed.
Director of Historic Vientiane, Khochone Keomanivong, said many parts of the museum would be renovated with the use of high quality equipment, and the work would be overseen by technical experts.
He said using the right materials and adhering to the original design would be a challenge, especially after their experience in renovating the Buddhist temple of Vat Sisaket, when some of the materials used did not match the existing structure.
“We will stick to the original as far as possible in terms of colour and design, and pay special attention to the materials we use,” Khochone said.
The restoration will not only strengthen the building but will also ensure safety for the growing number of tourists who visit this landmark destination. The renovation is forecast for completion by 2015, in time for the Hall’s 450th anniversary.
