This small pagoda was built on the site of altars dedicated to the founding ancestors of Luang Prabang, Phu Nheu and Nha Nheu, considered the guardians of the city. When pious King Phothisarath (1520-47) decided to eradicate animistic practices and destroy altars, the spirits are said to have found refuge in the two majestic centuries-old banyan trees standing between the street and the temple, the latter decorated with colourful modern frescoes.