Marvelous isn’t it? This is the Gyeongcheonsa Pagoda. A true treasure.
This ten-story marvel stands before you. It’s National Treasure No 86 you know. Designated in 1962. It wasn’t always here in the National Museum of Korea. Originally it resided at the now-lost Gyeongcheonsa Temple. That temple sat at the foot of Mt Buso.
The pagoda’s journey is quite extraordinary. It was erected in 1348. That’s during the reign of King Chungmok. An inscription on the first story confirms this. During the Japanese occupation in 1907 it was taken to Japan. Can you imagine? Thankfully it was returned in 1918. It then found a home at Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Notice the three-tiered foundation. That’s often mistaken for additional stories. It makes it appear thirteen stories tall instead of ten. It stands 13.5 meters high. Unlike most Goryeo pagodas this one is made of marble. Granite was usually preferred. The detailed carvings are incredible. They’re meant to create the illusion of wood. Each storey has railings. There are hip-and-gabled roofs too. Even eaves and carvings to suggest tiles.
The Gyeongcheonsa Pagoda is invaluable. It preserves the largely lost Goryeo-era wooden architectural style. The South Korean Cultural Heritage Administration considers it a masterpiece of Korean stonework. It showcases the skill and artistry of its creators. The intricate Buddhas bodhisattvas flowers and arabesque patterns are breathtaking.
The Gyeongcheonsa Pagoda. A testament to artistry resilience and enduring cultural heritage. It’s a story etched in stone. A story waiting to be discovered. A story I hope you’ll remember long after you leave.