Photo Gallery, Page 8

Sightseeing in Korea

Gameunsa Temple Site

Gameunsa Temple was built by King Munmu (AD 661-681), the king of Silla who unified Baekjae and Goguryeo late in the 7th century. Except for the 13.4 high two pagodas, all the buildings were burnt down. King Munmu built this temple to drive away the Japanese pirates from the country with the power of Buddha. Unfortunately, he passed away before the completion of the the temple, and asked to burry him at the East Sea, which is 500m far from the temple. Being a sacred dragon of the East Sea, he wanted to protect the county after his death. Therefore he was burried at sea near the temple. His son King Sinmun (AD 681-692) completed the temple and named it Gameunsa Temple, which implies appreciating paternal love.

The east and the west pagodas of Gameunsa Temple are structurally identical and are designated as National Treasuer No. 112. These stone pagodas were made during the early years of the Unified Silla Kingdom. The two 13.4 high pagodas are the highest three-story stone pagodas of the Silla Era and are known for its symmetry.

Credits: Korea National Tourism Organization