Stupa at Godalsa Temple Site, Yeoju

A Goryeo stupa 4.3 metres high, standing on the site of Godalsa. The temple was founded in 764, the twenty-third year of King Gyeongdeok of Unified Silla, and after the reign of King Gwangjong of Goryeo it was protected by the throne and kept the standing of a great monastery; it is thought to have been abandoned in the Joseon period. The plan is octagonal, and apart from an incomplete finial the stupa survives almost entire. The base that carries its weight is in three parts. The lower carries two framed panels on each face, each holding a flower, with sixteen lotus petals turned around the top. The middle part is the finest carving here and is almost circular: a turtle with a dragon's face looks straight out, modelled fully in the round. Four dragons hold the sacred jewel around it, and cloud pattern fills what is left. The upper part carries large upturned lotus petals supporting the body stone, which is cut with a door and its lock, the four guardian kings, and lattice windows. The roof stone above is thick, with flying figures and cloud carved beneath it.

AI Translation

Visiting

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

Admission

Free

Parking

Available

Information

+82-31-887-3561

Visitor information: Korea Tourism Organization · KOGL Type 1

Where it is

Region

Yeoju, Gyeonggi

Designation

National Treasure · 국보