VIENTIANE Meaning and
Definition
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Vientiane is the capital and largest city of Laos, situated in the southeastern part of the country. With a population of approximately 800,000, it serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of Laos. Vientiane is located on the northeastern bank of the Mekong River, which serves as a natural border between Laos and Thailand.
The word "Vientiane" can be traced back to the ancient Kingdom of Lan Xang, where it was known as Viangchan. It became the capital of Laos in the mid-16th century and has since developed into a vibrant and bustling city.
Vientiane is home to numerous historical, religious, and cultural landmarks. The most renowned of these is Pha That Luang, a grand Buddhist stupa that is considered a national symbol. Other notable attractions include Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple in Vientiane, and Patuxai, a significant monument resembling the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
The city's economy primarily relies on government administration, tourism, and small-scale industries. Additionally, Vientiane plays a crucial role in facilitating trade and transportation between Laos and its neighboring countries. The city's strategic location has made it an important hub of commerce and diplomacy within Southeast Asia.
Vientiane has experienced rapid urbanization and modernization in recent years, with the construction of new infrastructure, hotels, and shopping centers. Despite these advancements, it has managed to retain its cultural heritage and charm, offering a unique blend of traditional Lao culture and contemporary influences.
Common Misspellings for VIENTIANE
Etymology of VIENTIANE
The word "Vientiane" has its etymology rooted in the Lao language, specifically derived from Pali, a classical Indic language. "Vientiane" is actually a romanized version of the Lao pronunciation "ວຽງຈັນ" (Viēng Chan), which translates to "city of sandalwood".
The term "Viēng" means "city" or "town" in Lao, while "Chan" refers to "sandalwood", an aromatic wood highly used in religious rituals and traditional practices in Southeast Asia. Hence, the combination of these two words describes the city as the "city of sandalwood".
Vientiane is the capital and largest city of Laos and holds great significance in the country's cultural and historical context.
Similar spelling words for VIENTIANE
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