Stupa of Gwallyongsa Temple, Changnyeong

A stupa symbolises a monk's tomb, enshrining the monk's remains or relics (sari). This stupa is one of seven stupas within Gwallyongsa Temple, standing beside the path that leads north from the temple up Hwawangsan Mountain. Above a two-tiered base, a pedestal is built up from lower, middle and upper support stones, topped with a spherical body stone and then a square roof stone, so that the upper part appears larger in proportion than the lower. Two recessed panels bearing patterns are carved into each side of the lower support stone, and a band of lotus-petal design encircles its upper surface. The middle support stone is also carved, though the pattern is no longer distinct, and the lotus-petal design cut into the underside of the upper support stone is likewise badly worn. The top of the roof stone appears once to have borne a finial, of which only traces now remain. Judging from the stupa's structure and the quality of its carving, it is presumed to date from the Goryeo period. Although much worn, it is a beautiful and finely made work, fine enough to be considered representative of the stupas of Changnyeong County.

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Where it is

Region

Changnyeong, Gyeongnam

Designation

Cultural Heritage Material · 문화유산자료