Explore the Historic Heungdeoksa Temple Site
Welcome to Cheongju, a city rich in history and culture. One of the must-visit destinations for history enthusiasts is the Heungdeoksa Temple Site, a place where ancient relics and the fascinating story of early printing technology converge.
A Journey Through Time
The Heungdeoksa Temple Site gained prominence in 1985 when a land development project led to the serendipitous discovery of numerous relics. Thanks to the efforts of the Cheongju University Museum, these relics were meticulously excavated, revealing a glimpse into the city’s past.
The Mystery of Heungdeoksa Temple
While the exact time and size of Heungdeoksa Temple remain unknown, an intriguing connection to the world of printing can be found. According to Jikji, the world’s oldest existing book printed with movable metal type, the excavated books were printed at the temple during the reign of King Uwang in the year 1377. Remarkably, this printing predates Gutenberg’s invention by 78 years, making it an essential piece of global printing history.
Discover the Jikji
In 1972, the Jikji gained official recognition as the world’s oldest book printed with movable metal type during the International Book Year. Today, you can find this incredible artifact, known as the Buljojikjisimcheyojeol, at the National Library of France. Its significance not only lies in its age but also in its role as a symbol of human ingenuity and the spread of knowledge.
Getting to Heungdeoksa Temple Site
If you’re coming from Dong Seoul Intercity Bus Terminal, the easiest way to reach the Heungdeoksa Temple Site is by taking a bus to Cheongju Bus Terminal. Once you arrive at Cheongju Bus Terminal, hop on Bus No. 831 and alight at Cheongju Arts Center Bus Stop. From there, cross Jikji-ro at the designated crosswalk and continue straight for approximately 200 meters to reach your final destination.
Conclusion
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the historic Heungdeoksa Temple Site during your visit to Cheongju. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of this cultural gem and marvel at the early advancements in printing technology. The convergence of history and innovation awaits you at Heungdeoksa Temple Site, a place that truly encapsulates the spirit of Cheongju.
