Lao National Culture Hall, Vientiane

This four storey building looms large on one of the main streets of Vientiane, its soaring columns and ornate gold trim drawing the eye and dominating the smaller structures around it. The entrance doors are superb examples of intricate Lao woodcarving. Built by the Chinese government as a gift to Laos, it has been open although open is a relative term. You cannot venture inside unless the place is open for a public event, which are irregular occurrences. It is used for political meetings, film showings, concerts, exhibitions and private functions.