Stories of Korea’s National Treasures 37
Photo Credit: Cultural Heritage Administration of Korea
Three-story Stone Pagoda at the Site of Hwangboksa Temple
(Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do)
🏯 1. A Pagoda of Royal Faith
At the ancient site of Hwangboksa Temple in Gyeongju stands a noble relic of Silla’s golden age — the Three-story Stone Pagoda, a symbol of harmony, reverence, and spiritual strength.
Built in the 7th century during the Unified Silla period, the pagoda is believed to have been constructed to commemorate the achievements of King Sinmun, who completed the unification of the Korean Peninsula begun by his father, King Munmu.
Although the temple itself has long vanished, the stone tower remains, preserving the quiet dignity of an age when faith shaped both art and empire.
🪨 2. Architectural Elegance and Symbolism
The pagoda rises gracefully in three tiers upon a solid two-layered base, following the classical style of early Silla stone architecture.
Each story is carefully proportioned, slightly diminishing upward, symbolizing the spiritual ascent toward enlightenment. The eaves of the roof stones are finely carved and slightly upturned, creating a soft rhythm that balances stability and lightness.
The entire structure is built from finely cut granite blocks fitted with extraordinary precision — a hallmark of Silla artisanship. Though simple in form, the pagoda exudes quiet grandeur, embodying the Buddhist ideal that beauty lies in balance and purity.
🌄 3. The Spiritual Legacy of Hwangboksa
According to historical records, Hwangboksa Temple was one of Gyeongju’s great royal temples, closely connected with the royal family’s devotion to Buddhism.
The pagoda thus stands not only as a religious monument but also as a royal prayer for peace and prosperity. Its presence at the heart of the former capital symbolizes the belief that national unity must rest upon spiritual harmony.
To those who visit today, the tower speaks silently of that era’s wisdom — that the highest power is gentleness, and the truest strength is faith.
🌿 4. Preservation and Legacy
Despite centuries of wind, rain, and war, the Three-story Stone Pagoda of Hwangboksa Temple Site has retained its original form and serene beauty.
Designated National Treasure No. 37, it remains a cornerstone of Korean Buddhist architecture and a testament to Silla’s pursuit of perfection through simplicity.
When sunlight glows across its aged granite surface, the pagoda seems to breathe once more — carrying the quiet voice of a civilization that found peace in symmetry and purpose.
💬 5. A Warm Reflection
“Even in silence, stone remembers prayer.
Each tier of this pagoda rises not to reach heaven,
but to remind us that peace begins
with balance between earth and heart.”
📌 Notice
The National Treasure number indicates the order of designation, not a ranking of value.
For more information, please visit the 👉National Heritage Portal