Seonghyeolsa Temple (Yeongju)

About this place

Seonghyeolsa is believed to have been founded by the monk Uisang of the Unified Silla period and is located on the southeastern slope of Wolmyeongbong peak below Gungmangbong peak on Sobaeksan. It is a branch temple of Gounsa (the main temple of the 16th district of the Jogye Order). The temple's name 'seonghyeol' derives from the name of a cave to the south of the temple, which was given its name because it is said that a holy monk (성승) emerged from the cave here long ago. The temple complex is arranged freely according to the topography. The monastery was established on part of a narrow valley, using the terrain to its advantage; the monk's quarters (seungbang) and the Nahanmission Hall (Nahanjeon) were arranged facing south. The precinct contains the main hall (Daeungjeon), the Nahanjeon, the Mountain Spirit Hall (Sansingak), the Samseongak, the Simgeomdang (Sword-Mind Hall), the Hamdam-jeong pavilion and bell tower, and residences. With the exception of the Nahanjeon, all other buildings were newly constructed in recent times. The important cultural relics of Seonghyeolsa include the Nahanjeon, the Stone Vairocana Buddha Seated Figure, and the Sinchung Painting.