🌉 Stories of Korea’s National Treasures 22
Photo Credit: Cultural Heritage Administration of Korea
Lotus Bridge and Chilbo Bridge of Bulguksa Temple, Gyeongju
(경주 불국사 연화교 및 칠보교 · 慶州 佛國寺 蓮花橋 및 七寶橋)
📖 1. History and Description
The Lotus Bridge (Yeonhwagyo) and Chilbo Bridge (Chilbogyo) of Bulguksa Temple, located in Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do, are designated together as National Treasure No. 22 of Korea.
Built in the 8th century during the Unified Silla period, these twin stair bridges form part of the grand entrance to the Bulguksa Temple complex, one of Korea’s most sacred and architecturally celebrated Buddhist sites. They connect the Bridge of the World of Humans (청운교·백운교, Cheongungyo–Baegungyo) to the Bridge of Paradise (연화교·칠보교, Yeonhwagyo–Chilbogyo), symbolizing the spiritual journey from the human realm to the land of Buddha.
The Lotus Bridge, representing purity and enlightenment, is positioned below the Chilbo Bridge, which symbolizes the “Seven Treasures of Heaven” from Buddhist scripture. Both are constructed of finely carved granite, featuring 33 stone steps—a sacred number representing the ascent through the 33 heavens of Buddhist cosmology.
Architecturally, these bridges display the refined mastery of Silla stonework. The graceful curvature of the stairway, the precisely joined stones, and the subtle balance of each arch evoke the spiritual ideal of harmony between heaven and earth.
For centuries, pilgrims have ascended these stone steps as a ritual of purification—crossing from the mundane world into the sacred sanctuary of Bulguksa, the “Temple of the Buddha Land.”
🪄 2. Significance
- Architectural Value: Exemplifies the height of Silla stone craftsmanship, combining engineering precision with symbolic beauty.
- Symbolic Importance: Represents the Buddhist path from ignorance to enlightenment, embodied in the physical act of ascending the steps.
- Cultural Legacy: A timeless masterpiece that bridges the material and spiritual worlds, reflecting the profound philosophy of Silla Buddhism.
🌸 3. A Warm Thought
The Lotus and Chilbo Bridges at Bulguksa are more than stone—they are a quiet journey upward, reminding us that each step taken with faith brings us closer to light.
📌 Notice
The National Treasure number indicates the order of designation, not a ranking of value.
For more information, please visit the 👉National Heritage Portal.