Three-story Stone Pagoda of Jungheungsanseong Fortress, Gwangyang

Basic information

Designation

Treasure No.112

Category

Sites & Pagodas

Era

통일신라시대

Designated year

1963

Location

광양시, 전라남도— 전남 광양시 옥룡면 중흥로 263-100 (운평리) / (지번)전남 광양시 옥룡면 운평리 90-1

Coordinates

35.024540, 127.607355

This three-story stone pagoda is located near a stream on the west side of Jungheungsanseong Fortress. Jungheungsa Temple is said to have existed around this site, established by a great priest named Doseon during the reign of King Gyeongmun of the Silla Dynasty. Nonetheless, the temple was burnt down, and its monks, who turned into soldiers to fight against the Japanese forces who invaded Korea in 1592 (during the Joseon Dynasty), were all killed. A Twin-Lion Stone Lantern of Jungheungsanseong Fortress in Gwangyang (National Treasure No. 103), now moved to the National Museum of Korea, was originally located here together with this three-story stone pagoda with a two-tier stylobate. Each corner of the stylobate's upper part has engraved pole patterns, and two guardian gods of the Four Guardian Kings and a pair of Buddhas are carved on the front, sides, and back facets of the stylobate. Each of the roof stones and core stones of the main body of the pagoda is made of a single stone. The image of Buddha seated on a lotus pedestal is carved on each side of the first story between pole patterns carved on each corner. Moreover, the core stones of the main body for the two stories above are significantly smaller than the core stone of the first story, and the roof stones with straight eaves have a three-tier cornice. Of the finial, only the finial base and a ball-shaped decoration remain. The pagoda is heavily decorated with carved images and patterns, which are all in good condition. The stylobate, being much larger than the body, keeps its balance and sense of stability. This stone pagoda was made during the Unified Silla period.

Location