Originally built in 1804 by King Anourathurath () Wat Phra That Chomsi was restored in 1914 and again in 1926 when the 328-step staircase was built. Due to its particular position on top of the hill, the that or stupa after which it is named is rectangular in shape and rests on a three-tiered base with lotus-flower designs in the four corners. From foot to tip, the stupa measures 21 metres. A terrace at the foot of the stupa offers an unrivalled panoramic view of the town. One of the most interesting aspects of Mount Phou Si lies in the legend which surrounds it. Tradition has it that at the site of the sacred hill there used to be a deep pit that led to the centre of the earth. Helped by villagers, a monk went down into the pit and found an immense treasure. The villagers seized the treasure and buried the monk alive by sealing the entrance to the pit. However, armed with magical charms, the monk succeeded in extricating himself after defeating the seven guardians of the treasure. News of this murder attempt reached the ears of the king of Luang Prabang, who punished the villagers by condemning them to take turns in beating drums, gongs and cymbals every three hours to stop the dragons from disturbing mankind. This practice is still carried out today at nearby Wat Thum Thao.