East Stupa of Yeongoksa Temple, Gurye

A stupa is a structure containing the remains of an eminent Buddhist monk.

This stupa is presumed to have been built in the Unified Silla period (668-935). However, it is uncertain for which Buddhist monk this stupa was built. Out of all the cultural heritages remaining at Yeongoksa Temple, this stupa is the oldest and has the most refined decorative engravings.

This stupa has an octagonal shape and is composed of a base, body stone, roof stone, and decorative top. Each part is decorated with diverse patterns and pieces that symbolize the Buddhist Western Paradise. The base is carved with a cloud pattern, a lion, and a mythical half-human, half-bird creature (kalavinka). The body stone is carved with a door, an incense burner, and the Four Guardian Kings. The roof stone is carved with roof tiles and eaves, imitating in details the roof of a traditional wooden building. The decorative top is elaborately carved with four phoenixes that have their wings widely spread, a lotus flower, and a wish-fulfilling jewel.

Source: Korea Heritage Service signboard ↗ · collected 2026-10-08