Namsan, Sacred mountain in Gyeongju, South Korea.
Namsan is a mountain rising roughly 490 meters above Gyeongju that holds the remains of hundreds of religious buildings. Across its slopes and valleys sit temple ruins, stone figures, and pagodas woven into the natural landscape.
The mountain became a major religious center during the Silla Kingdom between the 7th and 10th centuries and drew monks and craftspeople. This extended period of spiritual importance left behind the archaeological remains visible on the slopes today.
Buddhist artworks scattered across the slopes show techniques that developed during the Silla period. Walking among the stone figures and carved details, you can observe how local craftspeople expressed their beliefs through stone.
Multiple hiking trails crisscross the mountain and connect the various ruins into a walkable route. Starting early in the day helps you get better light for viewing and photographing the sites.
The mountain holds over 110 temple sites that were built directly into the granite rock formations. Many were constructed in rock crevices and alcoves, making the peak an outdoor gallery where stone and spirituality interweave.
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