Patuxai (Lao:literally meaning Victory Gate or Gate of Triumph, formerly the Anousavary or Anosavari Monument, known by the French as Monument Aux Morts) is a war monument in the centre of Vientiane, Laos, which was built between 1957 and 1968. The Patuxai is dedicated to those who fought in the struggle for independence from France. In romanising the name from the Laotian language, it is variously transliterated as Patuxai, Patuxay, Patousai and Patusai. It is also called Patuxai Arch or the Arc de Triomphe of Vientiane as it resembles the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. However, it is typically Laotian in design, decorated with mythological creatures such as the kinnari(half-female, half-bird). |
These are some of the earliest photos I created from my first ever DSLR with an 18-55mm kit lens. With it's limited zoom range, shooting monuments such as Patuxai might make one feel handicapped. However, if you can use it for what it is good for, great results are possible. It's not my favorite choice for landscape and architecture but it's wide enough to cover a decent amount of area. Great for honing your skills and patience. =)