The Shilla Dynasty's culture is based
on Buddhism and ruins from this period are found
in the ancient capital, Kyongju and the surrounding
mountains, Mt Nam, Mt Toham and Mt Ham-wol.
Golgulsa (Stone Buddha Temple) located 20km east
of Kyongju, treasures the oldest historical Buddhist
ruins in Mt Hamwol and the only cave temple in Korea.
The temple was built out of solid rock during the
6th century by Saint Kwang Yoo and his companions,
Buddhist monks from India. This temple contains
a sculptured MayaTathagata Buddha and twelve rock
caves.
This locally used prayer sanctuardry and birth place
of spiritual culture had been eroding due to its
inaccessiblility.
Recently ex-Master Monk of Kirimsa (Kirim Temple),
Seol Jeok Woon, constructed a road and renovated
and developed the temple.
Now, the temple offers peace of mind to all Buddhists.
