Main Gate of Sajikdan Altar, Seoul

Basic information

Designation

Treasure No.177

Category

Architecture

Era

조선시대 중기

Designated year

1963

Location

종로구, 서울특별시— 서울 종로구 사직동 1-38번지

Coordinates

37.575702, 126.968632

Sajikdan Altar is an ancient altar for memorial services whose name, ‘Sajikdan,’ means to ‘pray for the comfort and prosperity of the country and its people.’ The syllable 'sa' of Sajikdan refers to the country's deities, while 'jik' refers specifically to agricultural deities. Ceremonies were held at Sajikdan Altar whenever a major national event occurred as well as in times of drought. The main gate of Sajikdan Altar was built at the time of the altar’s construction in 1394 (the 3rd year of the reign of King Taejo of the Joseon Dynasty). However, it was burnt during the Japanese Invasion of Korea in 1592. According to Joseon wangjo sillok (Annals of the Joseon Dynasty), the structure was rebuilt in 1720 (the 46th year of the reign of King Sukjong) after the Japanese Invasion in 1592. The building was moved to a spot some 14 meters behind its original location in 1962 due to city planning reforms in Seoul. The gate measures 3 kan (a unit of measurement referring to the distance between two columns) at the front side and 2 kan at the sides. It has a gable roof that resembles a 人 in shape when viewed from the side. The decorative structure supporting the eaves was made using a framework resembling a bird’s beak to support the beam on top of the column. With its simple techniques and strong structure, the main gate of Sajikdan Alter adds a compact feeling to the overall form of the building, and is regarded as an important architectural and cultural asset of Korea.

Location