5.3 Pagodas
9 min read•august 21, 2024
Korean pagodas are iconic structures in Buddhist temple architecture, blending Chinese influences with unique Korean elements. Emerging during the , these multi-tiered towers evolved from wood to stone construction, showcasing intricate designs and symbolic features.
Pagodas serve as cosmic axis symbols, house sacred relics, and provide spaces for rituals. Their distinct styles, from simple three-story structures to elaborate nine-story wooden pagodas, reflect Korea's artistic evolution. Notable examples like Hwangnyongsa and Bulguksa pagodas highlight their cultural significance.
Origins of Korean pagodas
- Korean pagodas emerged as an integral part of Buddhist temple architecture, reflecting the spread of Buddhism from China to Korea
- These structures served as symbolic representations of Buddhist cosmology and played crucial roles in religious practices and cultural identity
Chinese influence on pagodas
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- Introduced to Korea during the Three Kingdoms period (57 BCE - 935 CE) through Chinese Buddhist missionaries
- Adapted Chinese pagoda designs, initially maintaining similar proportions and architectural elements
- Gradually developed unique Korean characteristics, incorporating local aesthetic preferences and building techniques
Early Korean wooden pagodas
- Constructed primarily from wood during the early stages of Korean Buddhism
- Featured multiple stories, typically odd-numbered (3, 5, or 7), symbolizing Buddhist concepts
- Utilized interlocking wooden joints and bracket systems () for structural support
- Decorated with colorful paintings and intricate wooden carvings depicting Buddhist motifs
Transition to stone construction
- Shift from wood to stone occurred during the late Three Kingdoms period and early
- Stone pagodas offered greater durability and resistance to fire and weathering
- Retained many design elements from wooden predecessors, including multi-tiered structures and decorative features
- Allowed for more elaborate and permanent sculptural details on exterior surfaces
Structural elements of pagodas
- Korean pagodas consist of distinct architectural components that combine functionality with symbolic meaning
- These elements reflect both Chinese influences and uniquely Korean innovations in Buddhist architecture
Base and foundation
- Square or octagonal platform serves as the pagoda's foundation
- Often features decorative carvings or relief sculptures depicting Buddhist scenes or guardian figures
- May include multiple levels, creating a stepped appearance
- Symbolizes the earth and provides stability for the entire structure
Multi-tiered body
- Consists of stacked levels or stories, typically odd-numbered (3, 5, 7, or 9)
- Each level represents a different realm in Buddhist cosmology
- Incorporates overhanging eaves (cheoma) to protect the structure from rain and snow
- Features corner brackets (gongpo) supporting the roof of each level in wooden pagodas
Finial and roof ornaments
- Crowning element () at the top of the pagoda, often made of metal
- Includes a series of rings, discs, and a jewel-shaped ornament ()
- Symbolizes the Buddha's teachings reaching towards the heavens
- May feature wind chimes or bells to ward off evil spirits and create soothing sounds
Symbolism and function
- Korean pagodas embody deep spiritual significance within Buddhist tradition and serve multiple purposes in religious practice
- These structures act as physical manifestations of Buddhist cosmology and provide spaces for various rituals and ceremonies
Buddhist cosmology representation
- Vertical structure symbolizes the axis mundi, connecting earth to heaven
- Odd number of stories represents different realms of existence in Buddhist cosmology
- Each level corresponds to specific Buddhist concepts (Three Realms, Five Elements, Seven Factors of Enlightenment)
- Ascending tiers signify the path to enlightenment and spiritual progression
Reliquary purpose
- Many pagodas house sacred Buddhist relics () within their structures
- Central core often contains a stone chamber or box for storing relics
- Relics may include cremated remains of Buddhist masters, sacred texts, or other holy objects
- Presence of relics imbues the pagoda with spiritual power and makes it a site of veneration
Ritual and ceremonial uses
- Serve as focal points for Buddhist rituals and ceremonies within temple complexes
- Used for circumambulation (walking around clockwise) as a form of meditation and worship
- Provide spaces for offering incense, flowers, and other devotional items
- Act as gathering places for special events such as Buddha's birthday celebrations or full moon ceremonies
Major pagoda styles
- Korean pagodas developed distinct styles throughout different historical periods, reflecting evolving architectural techniques and aesthetic preferences
- These styles showcase the creativity and craftsmanship of Korean artisans while maintaining core
Three-story stone pagoda
- Most common style in Korean Buddhist architecture
- Characterized by its simple, elegant proportions and sturdy construction
- Features a double-tier base, three main stories, and a finial
- Often incorporates relief carvings of Buddhist figures or symbols on the body
- Examples include at Bulguksa Temple and Gameunsa Temple Site Three-story Stone Pagoda
Nine-story wooden pagoda
- Tallest and most complex wooden pagoda style in Korean history
- Exemplified by the now-lost in Gyeongju
- Consisted of nine stories reaching a height of approximately 80 meters
- Incorporated intricate wooden bracketing systems and elaborate decorations
- Symbolized the nine-fold classification of Buddhist sutras
Silla dynasty pagodas
- Developed unique characteristics during the Unified Silla period (668-935 CE)
- Featured more slender proportions compared to earlier styles
- Incorporated decorative elements such as lotus flower motifs and intricate stone carvings
- Often built in pairs within temple complexes, representing different aspects of Buddhism
- Notable examples include and Seokgatap at Bulguksa Temple
Notable Korean pagodas
- Several Korean pagodas have gained recognition for their historical significance, architectural beauty, and cultural importance
- These structures serve as prime examples of Korean Buddhist art and continue to attract scholars and tourists alike
Hwangnyongsa pagoda
- Largest wooden pagoda ever built in Korea, constructed in 645 CE
- Stood at Hwangnyongsa Temple in Gyeongju, the capital of Silla Kingdom
- Reached a height of approximately 80 meters with nine stories
- Destroyed during the Mongol invasions in the 13th century
- Archaeological excavations have revealed its massive foundation and historical importance
Bunhwangsa pagoda
- One of the oldest surviving stone pagodas in Korea, built in 634 CE
- Located at Bunhwangsa Temple in Gyeongju, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Originally constructed as a nine-story pagoda, now stands at three stories due to damage
- Features unique decorative elements, including relief carvings of the Four Heavenly Kings
- Demonstrates the transition from wooden to stone pagoda construction in Korea
Dabotap vs Seokgatap
- Two contrasting pagodas located at Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongju
- Dabotap (Many Treasure Pagoda) features ornate design with intricate stone carvings
- Represents the Dabo (Many Treasures) Buddha from the Lotus Sutra
- Incorporates complex architectural elements and symbolic imagery
- Seokgatap (Sakyamuni Pagoda) exemplifies simplicity and elegance in design
- Represents Sakyamuni Buddha, the historical Buddha
- Features clean lines and minimal ornamentation
- Together, they symbolize the harmony between complexity and simplicity in Buddhist philosophy
Materials and construction techniques
- Korean pagodas showcase a range of materials and building methods that evolved over time
- These techniques reflect advancements in engineering and artistic expression within Korean Buddhist architecture
Wood vs stone pagodas
- Wooden pagodas dominated early Korean Buddhist architecture
- Utilized locally available timber (pine, cedar)
- Allowed for taller, more flexible structures
- Required regular maintenance and were vulnerable to fire
- Stone pagodas became prevalent from the late Three Kingdoms period
- Offered greater durability and resistance to natural elements
- Allowed for more intricate and permanent decorative features
- Limited height due to weight constraints
Interlocking stone techniques
- Developed sophisticated methods for joining stone blocks without mortar
- Utilized precisely cut stones with interlocking joints for stability
- Incorporated hidden metal pins or brackets for additional structural support
- Enabled the creation of multi-tiered structures that could withstand earthquakes
- Examples include the construction methods used in Seokgatap at Bulguksa Temple
Decorative carvings and reliefs
- Employed skilled artisans to create intricate stone carvings on pagoda surfaces
- Featured Buddhist imagery, including bodhisattvas, celestial beings, and lotus flowers
- Utilized low-relief and high-relief techniques to add depth and visual interest
- Incorporated symbolic elements such as the Eight Auspicious Symbols of Buddhism
- Demonstrated the evolution of Korean sculptural arts alongside architectural developments
Regional variations
- Korean pagodas exhibit distinct characteristics based on the kingdoms and dynasties that produced them
- These regional styles reflect local artistic traditions, available materials, and cultural influences
Baekje kingdom pagodas
- Known for elegant proportions and refined craftsmanship
- Often featured five or seven stories with graceful, tapering silhouettes
- Incorporated decorative roof tiles and intricate stone carvings
- Examples include the Stone Pagoda at Mireuksa Temple Site
- Influenced pagoda designs in Japan due to cultural exchanges
Silla kingdom pagodas
- Developed unique styles during the Unified Silla period (668-935 CE)
- Characterized by more robust proportions and elaborate ornamentation
- Often built in pairs within temple complexes (Dabotap and Seokgatap)
- Incorporated advanced stone-cutting and assembly techniques
- Notable for the use of andesite, a durable volcanic stone, in construction
Goryeo dynasty innovations
- Introduced new pagoda forms during the Goryeo period (918-1392 CE)
- Developed the octagonal-shaped pagoda design
- Example: Ten-story Stone Pagoda at Gyeongcheonsa Temple Site
- Experimented with more complex architectural elements and decorations
- Incorporated influences from Song dynasty China while maintaining Korean aesthetics
- Began using marble and other precious stones in pagoda construction
Pagodas in temple complexes
- Pagodas play a crucial role in the overall design and spiritual significance of Korean Buddhist temple complexes
- Their placement and relationship to other structures reflect both practical and symbolic considerations
Placement and orientation
- Typically located on the central axis of the temple complex
- Often positioned between the main entrance gate and the principal Buddha hall
- Aligned with cardinal directions, usually facing south for optimal sunlight
- Placement considers feng shui principles to harmonize with the natural landscape
- May be situated on elevated ground to increase visibility and symbolic importance
Relationship to other structures
- Forms part of the core trio of structures in many temple layouts
- Pagoda, Main Buddha Hall (Daeungjeon), and Lecture Hall (Gangwonjon)
- Often flanked by stone lanterns or paired with another pagoda
- Serves as a visual focal point and complements surrounding buildings
- Helps create a sense of hierarchy and progression within the temple grounds
- May be associated with specific ritual spaces or meditation areas
Landscape integration
- Designed to harmonize with the natural surroundings of the temple site
- Often incorporates local topography, such as mountains or water features
- Utilizes stone platforms or terraces to create a transition between architecture and landscape
- May be surrounded by carefully planned gardens or courtyards
- Considers views from different vantage points within the temple complex
Preservation and restoration
- Korean pagodas face numerous challenges in their preservation, requiring ongoing efforts to maintain and restore these important cultural artifacts
- Modern conservation techniques and reconstruction projects aim to safeguard these structures for future generations
Challenges in maintenance
- Weathering and erosion of stone surfaces due to exposure to elements
- Structural instability caused by earthquakes or ground settling
- Biological growth (moss, lichen) that can damage stone and wooden elements
- Air pollution and acid rain affecting the integrity of materials
- Vandalism or theft of decorative elements or relics
Modern conservation efforts
- Implementation of non-invasive monitoring techniques to assess structural health
- Use of advanced imaging technologies (3D scanning, photogrammetry) for documentation
- Application of specialized cleaning methods to remove pollutants and biological growth
- Development of protective coatings to prevent water infiltration and stone degradation
- Creation of climate-controlled environments for particularly vulnerable pagodas
Reconstruction of lost pagodas
- Utilization of historical records, archaeological evidence, and advanced technologies for accurate reconstructions
- Debates surrounding the use of traditional materials versus modern alternatives
- Examples of successful reconstructions (Mireuksa Temple Western Stone Pagoda)
- Virtual reconstructions using 3D modeling to visualize lost structures
- Consideration of UNESCO guidelines for authenticity in cultural heritage reconstruction
Cultural significance
- Korean pagodas hold immense cultural value, serving as tangible links to the country's Buddhist heritage and architectural achievements
- These structures continue to play important roles in modern Korean society and cultural identity
National treasure designations
- Many significant pagodas have been designated as National Treasures of South Korea
- Rigorous selection process based on historical, artistic, and cultural criteria
- Provides legal protection and funding for conservation efforts
- Raises public awareness about the importance of these structures
- Examples: Seokgatap (National Treasure No. 21), Dabotap (National Treasure No. 20)
Tourism and cultural heritage
- Pagodas serve as major attractions for domestic and international tourists
- Contribute to the cultural tourism industry and local economies
- Used in promotional materials to showcase Korean cultural heritage
- Provide opportunities for educational programs and guided tours
- Inspire contemporary artists and designers in various fields
Influence on Korean architecture
- Continue to inspire modern architectural designs in Korea
- Symbolic elements incorporated into contemporary buildings and public spaces
- Influence seen in the design of some modern Korean skyscrapers
- Pagoda forms adapted for non-religious structures (Seoul Tower, Lotte World Tower)
- Contribute to the ongoing dialogue between traditional and modern Korean architecture
Key Terms to Review (25)
Boju: Boju refers to a traditional Korean architectural style of pagoda that is characterized by its unique, multi-tiered structure and is often associated with Buddhist temples. These pagodas serve as reliquaries, housing sacred artifacts and relics, and symbolize the spiritual journey in Buddhist cosmology. The design of boju embodies a harmonious balance between natural and man-made elements, often reflecting the cultural significance of Buddhism in Korean society.
Buddhist Symbolism: Buddhist symbolism refers to the use of specific symbols and visual representations within Buddhism that convey deeper spiritual meanings and teachings. These symbols serve as tools for meditation, reflection, and understanding core Buddhist concepts such as enlightenment, impermanence, and compassion. Key symbols like the lotus flower, dharma wheel, and pagodas embody essential aspects of Buddhist philosophy and practice.
Bulguksa pagoda: The bulguksa pagoda is a historically significant stone structure located in South Korea, known for its intricate design and representation of Buddhist architecture. It is part of the Bulguksa Temple complex, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and showcases the pinnacle of Silla-era craftsmanship in stone construction, illustrating the spiritual and cultural values of Buddhism during that period.
Dabotap: Dabotap is a type of stone pagoda found in Korea, characterized by its unique design that blends Buddhist symbolism with architectural innovation. These pagodas often feature multiple tiers, elaborate carvings, and are typically associated with Buddhist temples or sites, serving both a religious purpose and as an artistic expression of the era's craftsmanship. The term encapsulates the fusion of spirituality and artistry prevalent in Buddhist architecture during its historical development.
Five-story pagoda: A five-story pagoda is a tiered tower structure commonly found in East Asian architecture, particularly associated with Buddhist temples. Each level is typically marked by a distinctive roof that curves upward, symbolizing the connection between the earthly realm and the spiritual world. This architectural form not only serves as a place of worship but also represents the principles of Buddhist cosmology and the significance of enlightenment.
Gongpo: Gongpo refers to a type of architectural style and technique used in traditional Korean architecture, particularly prominent during the Unified Silla period. This style is characterized by its intricate wooden structures and harmonious integration with nature, showcasing advanced engineering that emphasized symmetry and proportion. The principles of gongpo significantly influenced the design of pagodas and Buddhist temple architecture, marking a unique phase in Korea's architectural history.
Goryeo Dynasty: The Goryeo Dynasty was a Korean dynastic kingdom that ruled from 918 to 1392, known for its cultural achievements and the establishment of a centralized state. This period saw significant developments in art, literature, and technology, with a particular emphasis on Buddhism that influenced various art forms.
Granite: Granite is a hard, igneous rock composed mainly of quartz, feldspar, and mica. It is known for its durability and strength, making it a favored material in construction, especially for monumental architecture and sculptures. The use of granite is significant in various architectural forms, particularly in creating impressive structures that withstand the test of time, showcasing the advanced stoneworking techniques of historical cultures.
Hwangnyongsa pagoda: The hwangnyongsa pagoda was a significant structure in ancient Korea, built during the Silla dynasty in the 7th century. This seven-story pagoda, associated with the Hwangnyongsa temple, served as a religious symbol and exemplified the advanced architectural techniques of the time, showcasing the influence of Buddhism in Korean culture.
Joseon Dynasty: The Joseon Dynasty was a Korean dynastic kingdom that lasted for approximately five centuries, from 1392 to 1910, and is known for its significant cultural, political, and social developments. It marked a period of Confucian state ideology which influenced various forms of art, governance, and daily life in Korea.
Meditation Space: A meditation space is a designated area that fosters tranquility and contemplation, often utilized for spiritual or mindfulness practices. In the context of pagodas, these spaces serve as environments where individuals can connect with nature, reflect, and engage in meditation, enhancing the overall spiritual experience associated with these structures. This connection is significant as it embodies the harmony between architecture, nature, and the inner self.
Nine-story wooden pagoda: The nine-story wooden pagoda is a traditional East Asian structure that features multiple tiers, each with an overhanging roof. These pagodas are significant in the context of Buddhist architecture, serving both as places of worship and as relic repositories. The unique design often symbolizes the connection between the earthly realm and the heavens, with the nine stories representing various spiritual concepts.
Ornamental carvings: Ornamental carvings are decorative sculptures or designs that are intricately crafted into materials such as wood, stone, or plaster. These carvings often serve both aesthetic and symbolic purposes, enhancing the visual appeal of structures and objects while also conveying cultural or religious significance. In certain architectural contexts, such as pagodas, ornamental carvings can depict intricate narratives, motifs, or themes that reflect the spiritual beliefs and artistic traditions of the time.
Pilgrimage Site: A pilgrimage site is a location that holds significant spiritual or religious importance, often attracting individuals who undertake journeys to these places for the purpose of worship, reflection, or seeking spiritual fulfillment. These sites are frequently associated with specific deities, historical events, or sacred narratives and can include temples, shrines, or natural landscapes believed to be imbued with divine presence. In the context of pagodas, these structures often serve as focal points for pilgrimage, drawing devotees who engage in rituals and practices linked to their faith.
Reliquary: A reliquary is a container or shrine used to hold and display relics, which are typically physical remains or personal effects of saints and other holy figures. These objects serve not only as a means of veneration but also symbolize the connection between the sacred and the earthly. Reliquaries are often intricately designed, showcasing artistic craftsmanship and reflecting the religious significance attributed to the relics they house.
Sacred geometry: Sacred geometry refers to the symbolic and sacred meanings attributed to certain geometric shapes and proportions, often believed to reflect the underlying patterns of the universe. It plays a significant role in many cultures, especially in architecture and art, where it is used to create harmony, balance, and spiritual significance. In this context, sacred geometry is essential for understanding the design principles of structures like pagodas, which incorporate these shapes to express deeper spiritual and philosophical ideas.
Sangryun: Sangryun refers to the unique architectural style of pagodas in Korea, characterized by their multi-tiered structures and distinctively curved roofs. This term captures the essence of traditional Korean pagodas, which serve both religious and aesthetic purposes, embodying the harmony between nature and architecture in Korean Buddhist practice.
Sarira: Sarira refers to the physical relics or remains of Buddhist monks and nuns, which are believed to hold spiritual significance. These remains often take the form of small, jewel-like objects that are found in stupas or pagodas, signifying the attainment of enlightenment and the continuing presence of the individual’s spiritual essence after death.
Seokgatap: Seokgatap is a type of stone pagoda that represents the Buddha's presence and teachings, commonly found in Korea. This architectural form is significant as it embodies the fusion of Buddhist beliefs with local artistic styles, showcasing the spiritual aspirations of the time. Seokgatap serves both as a functional structure for worship and a symbolic representation of Buddhist concepts, reflecting the reverence towards the Buddha and the importance of Buddhist art in shaping Korean cultural identity.
Stupa: A stupa is a dome-shaped structure that serves as a Buddhist commemorative monument, typically housing sacred relics associated with the Buddha or other important figures in Buddhism. Stupas symbolize the path to enlightenment and are significant in Buddhist architecture, often serving as focal points for meditation and worship within monastic complexes.
Three Kingdoms Period: The Three Kingdoms Period refers to a time in Korean history from the 1st century BCE to the 7th century CE when three rival kingdoms, Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla, dominated the Korean Peninsula. This era is characterized by significant advancements in art, culture, and political organization, leading to a rich artistic legacy that reflects the diverse influences and developments of the time.
Three-story pagoda: A three-story pagoda is a traditional Asian structure, commonly found in Korea, characterized by its tiered design and architectural style. These pagodas are often built to house relics and serve as symbols of Buddhist faith, representing the harmony between heaven, earth, and humanity. The three-story aspect signifies a connection to the Buddhist cosmology, with each level symbolizing different realms of existence.
Tile roofs: Tile roofs are roofing systems made from fired clay or concrete tiles that are laid in overlapping rows to provide a durable and weather-resistant covering for buildings. This architectural feature is prominent in traditional Asian structures, particularly pagodas, where the curved shape and intricate design of the tiles add to the aesthetic and cultural significance of these structures.
Unified Silla Era: The Unified Silla Era refers to the period from 668 to 935 CE when the Silla Kingdom successfully unified the Korean Peninsula under its rule. This era is marked by significant cultural and architectural achievements, including the construction of pagodas, which symbolize the height of Buddhist influence and artistic expression during this time.
Wooden beams: Wooden beams are structural elements used in architecture, primarily for support and stability, made from timber. These beams are essential in various architectural styles, playing a vital role in both the structural integrity and aesthetic appearance of buildings, particularly in pagodas and Confucian shrines where they showcase traditional craftsmanship and design principles.