Claim: The ancient city of Luang Prabang is considered to be the cradle of Lao culture and cuisine, with its influences stretching from Sipsongpanna to Steung Treng.
Evidence: It had also been known by the ancient name of Xieng Thong. Luang Prabang was once the royal capital and seat of power of the Kingdom of Lan Xang (1353-1707). At the height of its power, Luang Prabang's influence stretches from the borders of Sipsongpanna (China) to Steung Treng (Cambodia), from the eastern border along the Annamite Range with Vietnam to the western border Khorat Plateau (Northeastern Thailand (Isan)) and its sister kingdom of Lan Na