Seokguram Grotto, Gyeongju

An artificial stone grotto temple near the summit of Toham Mountain in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province, representing the zenith of Unified Silla Buddhist sculpture. Granite was carved to form a round chamber housing the principal Buddha, with bodhisattvas and disciples intricately carved on the walls. It is said to have been created by Kim Daeseong during the reign of King Gyeongdeok. Its position overlooking the East Sea and its superb artistic form earned it UNESCO World Heritage status alongside Bulguksa.