Gaemoksa Temple (Andong)

About this place

The original name of Gaemoksa was Heungguksa (興國寺), said to have been built by the great monk Uisang during the reign of King Sinmun of Unified Silla (r. 681-692). According to legend, Uisang gained enlightenment through the miracle of a heavenly maiden (天女) in the Cheondeunggul cave behind the temple and built the monastery, and the name 'Gaemoksa' ('temple of opening the eyes') is said to have been changed to this name during the Joseon period. The Wontong-jeon (Hall of Avalokitesvara) of Gaemoksa, which enshrines Guanyin (Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva), is estimated to have been built in 1457 (the 3rd year of King Sejo) based on a record of 'Cheonsunyeon' (天順元年) found during its dismantling and repair in 1969. Overall, it well preserves the architectural characteristics of the early Joseon period, and was designated as a treasure on January 21, 1963.