This Luang Prabang II-style temple is also known as Wat That, after the stupa which was constructed here in 1548 by King Photisarath (1520-1550). The original sim was destroyed during a storm in 1900 and was rebuilt between 1907 and 1910; it was completely restored in 1963. It features a peripheral veranda and a two-layered roof with a change of gradient. Wat Phra Mahathat is one of the most important places in Luang Prabang for the celebration of the Lao New Year.  On the third day of Phimai (the day when the tutelary deity of the year arrives), the superiors of Wat May, Wat Xieng Thong, Wat Aham and Wat Wisun arrive by palanquin in a solemn procession to attend a sacred dance of the town's guardian spirits, Phou Nheu and Nha Nheu.