Exploring Anguksa Site: A Hidden Historical Gem
'Anguksa Site' may sound familiar, but it’s a place many have yet to visit.
Located in Chungcheongnam-do, Anguksa Site is a Buddhist heritage site from the Goryeo Dynasty, where the temple buildings have disappeared, leaving only the foundations and national heritage behind.
This site is situated halfway up the Eungbong Mountain in Sudang-ri, Jeongmi-myeon, Dangjin City, Chungcheongnam-do. While the exact founding date is unknown, artifacts suggest it was established during the Goryeo period.
It was abandoned during the Joseon Dynasty, and as mentioned earlier, only the site remains today.
Positioned on the mountainside, this site is characterized by its natural scenery. Visiting during spring enhances its features, making it a perfect time to explore Anguksa Site.
The site is surrounded by a flower garden, showcasing the designated treasure, the Stone Buddha Triad, which is particularly beautiful in spring.
The remaining artifact at Anguksa Site, the Stone Buddha Triad, features three statues standing side by side. The central statue is a large stone figure with its head and body carved from a single stone.
Its left hand is placed on its abdomen with the thumb and index finger touching, a pose often associated with Buddhist meditation, making it quite impressive.
Despite being an ancient statue, it is remarkably well-preserved.
The statue on the right has a damaged head precariously resting on its torso, giving it a somewhat unstable appearance. During the excavation, a roof tile inscribed with 'Taepyeong 10' was found, indicating it dates back to around 1030 (the second year of King Hyunjong's reign).
The large rock shaped like a boat behind the statues is not just a random stone; it features engravings related to a religious practice known as 'maehyang,' which involves preparing incense for the future Maitreya Buddha's coming.
Due to erosion over the years, the inscriptions are hard to read, but faint traces can still be found.
Although not a major tourist attraction, the view of the Buddha statues amidst the flower garden is a rare sight, adding to the site's mystique.
Behind the site, there is a small hermitage, where one or two monks seem to practice or manage the area. The flower garden was cultivated by these monks and their efforts were evident during my visit in spring, as they tended to the flowers.
Thanks to a monk who mentioned the rare white azalea, I was able to enjoy this beautiful flower. Although the space is small, being surrounded by flowers lifted my spirits and made me reluctant to leave.
If you're looking for a historical site where you can enjoy both history and flowers, I highly recommend visiting Anguksa Site!
Source :https://blog.naver.com/sinmunman/224250067704
No comments yet.
