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Josadang Shrine of Silleuksa Temple, Yeoju

여주 신륵사 조사당 ( 驪州 神勒寺 祖師堂 )

Heritage Search Detail
Classification Treasure
Name of Cultural Properties Josadang Shrine of Silleuksa Temple, Yeoju
Quantity 1 building
Designated Date 1963.01.21
Age Early Joseon
Address Silleuksa Temple 73, Silleuksa-gil, Yeoju-eup, Yeoju-gun, Gyeonggi-do

In general, a Josadang Shrine is the building that enshrines portraits of the greatest monks at a temple. This particular Josadang Shrine, located at Silleuksa Temple in Yeoju, enshrines a portrait of Buddhist monk Jigong on the wall behind the altar, flanked by portraits of the Buddhist monks Muhak and Naong. Built during the Joseon Dynasty at the foot of Bongmisan Mountain, Silleuksa Temple is believed to have been constructed during the Silla Dynasty, although there is no written record to prove it. It is assumed that this Josadang Shrine was built during the reign of King Yejong in the early days of the Joseon Dynasty. The shrine measures 1 kan (a unit of measurement referring to the distance between two columns) at the front and 2 kan at the sides, and is built upon a low foundation. The building has a hip-and-gable roof resembling the character 八 when viewed from the side. The eaves of the roof are supported by a bracket system consisting of decorated brackets placed on and between the columns. The front of the building has six doors while the side has one entrance door. The Josadang Shrine of Silleuksa Temple exhibits the carving style of the early Joseon Period, and is a small yet well-balanced, elegant structure.