Bunhwangsa is a temple complicated that dates from the Silla Kingdom, with a reputation that interprets as “Aromatic Imperial Temple.” 

Probably the most notable spoil on the temple is the pagoda referred to as Bunhwangsa Seoktap (Stone Pagoda of Bunhwangsa). Data present that Bunhwangsa Seoktap was in-built 634 on the request of Queen Seondeok, is the oldest dated pagoda from the Silla Kingdom. On the peak of its recognition, the temple complicated lined a number of acres and was thought of one of many 4 fundamental temples of the Silla Kingdom. It was utilized by the state to ask the Buddha to bless the dominion.

The pagoda’s construction relies on examples from the Tang Dynasty of China. Silla architects modified the design barely in comparison with the Tang variations, with Bunhwangsa Seoktap utilizing black andesite stones which have been reduce like bricks to construct the pagoda. Every degree of the pagoda will get progressively smaller in dimension, and every degree’s roof was constructed by arranging the stones like a staircase. Although solely three ranges of the pagoda stay as we speak,  data present that the unique construction stood 9 tales tall.

Sadly, Bunhwangsa was destroyed by invading armies on three events. First in 1238 by the hands of the invading Mongols, then in 1592 by the Japanese through the first wave of the Imjin Warfare, after which a 3rd time in 1597, through the second wave of the Imjin Warfare.  

As soon as hole, the stays of the pagoda at the moment are stuffed with rubble from the collapsed higher ranges and different accrued garbage. An excavation and partial restoration of the pagoda, undertaken in 1915 by the Japanese, uncovered a sarira, or relic field, holding the cremated stays of a priest hidden between the second and third ranges. Valuable artifacts corresponding to gold, stone ornaments, cash, scissors, and a needle have been additionally discovered within the pagoda. It was thought that these objects point out {that a} lady of royal blood, even perhaps Queen Seondeok herself, had as soon as owned them. The pagoda is Nationwide Treasure of Korea No. 30 and was designated as such on December 20, 1962.