1,300-year-old temple burned down in firestorm, only bell remains

(Dan Tri) - A 1,300-year-old temple was completely burned down after a forest fire in South Korea. The only thing that remained intact was the bell, but it was also cracked.

Gounsa Temple, located on Deungunsan Mountain and more than 1,300 years old in Uiseong County, North Gyeongsang Province (South Korea), was burned down after a forest fire broke out on March 21.

The broken bell was all that remained after the 1,300-year-old temple was swept away by fire (Photo: Kim Do-hoon/Yonhap).

An unprecedented wildfire is raging in the southern part of the country, destroying much of an ancient Buddhist temple complex and burning down two buildings considered national treasures, local officials said on March 26.

This year's wildfires are considered among the worst in the country, killing at least 26 people, destroying more than 300 structures, and forcing more than 28,000 residents to evacuate.

Gounsa Temple, built in 681 AD during the Shilla Dynasty, was engulfed in flames on March 25 when strong winds from a forest fire fanned it.

A library near Gounsa Temple burned down (Photo: Yonhap).

About 20 of the temple's 30 buildings and structures were completely burned down.

The structures that burned down included the Gaunru building, built in 1668 overlooking the stream, and the Yeonsujeon building, built in 1904 to celebrate the longevity of a king. Both structures are considered national treasures by South Korea, according to the Korea Heritage Administration.

Although the main building and ancillary structures of the pagoda were burned down, 15 important tangible cultural heritages including 10 national treasures, especially the seated stone Buddha statue, wooden blocks and Buddha paintings were promptly moved to other safe locations.

"What we saw was a pile of ashes. I felt really empty and life was so fleeting. Luckily, the authorities and monks in the temple were able to move the cultural heritage in time.

The temple has been protected for thousands of years. It is heartbreaking to see this place burned down in our generation," said monk Doryeon of Gounsa Temple.

The ancient beauty of Gounsa Temple before it was swept away by the forest fire (Photo: Trip).

Before it was destroyed, Gounsa Temple was a popular tourist destination thanks to its beautiful view of Deungunsan Mountain.

Forest fires are not uncommon in South Korea, especially in February, March and April when the weather is at its driest.

Currently, South Korea is still strengthening firefighting efforts, but is still facing many difficulties in controlling the fire due to strong winds and dry weather.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/du-lich/ngoi-chua-1300-nam-tuoi-bi-thieu-rui-sau-bao-lua-sot-lai-moi-qua-chuong-20250327164043662.htm