Stories of Korea’s National Treasures 35
Photo Credit : Cultural Heritage Administration of Korea
Four Lion Three-story Stone Pagoda of Hwaeomsa Temple
(Gurye, Jeollanam-do)
🏯 1. The Pagoda Guarded by Lions
At the sacred grounds of Hwaeomsa Temple in Gurye stands one of Korea’s most unique pagodas — the Four Lion Three-story Stone Pagoda, a breathtaking harmony of symbolism and sculpture from the Unified Silla period (8th century).
This extraordinary structure combines religious meaning, artistic imagination, and engineering precision into a single form. Its base is upheld by four majestic lions, each facing a different direction, symbolizing strength, protection, and wisdom spreading across the four corners of the world.
As the lions lift the tower toward the sky, the pagoda seems to rise not through weight, but through spirit — a silent yet powerful metaphor for enlightenment supported by virtue.
🪨 2. Structure and Artistic Expression
The pagoda stands on a square base, supported by four individually sculpted lions carved with exquisite realism and vitality. Their postures differ slightly, suggesting individuality and movement — a remarkable innovation in stone sculpture of that era.
Above them rises the three-tiered main body, each story smaller than the one below, representing spiritual ascent. The roof stones are gracefully curved and precisely proportioned, creating a rhythm of upward balance.
Between the lions, a small seated Buddha is carved on the pedestal — a symbol of wisdom supported by courage and faith. The combination of these elements reflects the Silla artisans’ profound grasp of both Buddhist symbolism and naturalistic form.
🌄 3. Symbolism and Sacred Meaning
In Buddhist tradition, lions are protectors of the Dharma — their roar represents the voice of truth that dispels ignorance.
By placing four lions at the base of this pagoda, the Silla people expressed their wish for the Buddha’s teachings to reach all directions and protect the world from suffering.
The pagoda’s upward rhythm, carried by these guardians, conveys the harmony of power and serenity, reminding visitors that enlightenment requires both strength of heart and gentleness of spirit.
Standing before it, one can feel that these lions do not merely guard stone — they guard faith itself.
🌿 4. Preservation and Legacy
Despite its age of over 1,200 years, the Four Lion Three-story Stone Pagoda retains its majestic presence.
It is celebrated as one of the finest stone sculptures of the Unified Silla period, blending architectural balance with sculptural vitality.
Designated National Treasure No. 35, this pagoda represents the creative peak of Buddhist art in Korea — a fusion of devotion, technical mastery, and symbolic imagination.
Today, it continues to inspire awe, standing as a monument to the idea that true strength is the courage to uphold wisdom with grace.
💬 5. A Warm Reflection
“The lions lift more than stone — they lift the spirit.
Their silent strength reminds us
that faith, when supported by courage,
can carry even the weight of eternity.”
📌 Notice
The National Treasure number indicates the order of designation, not a ranking of value.
For more information, please visit the 👉National Heritage Portal