Saenamteo, Catholic church in Seoul, South Korea
Saenamteo is a Catholic church in Yongsan, Seoul, featuring stained glass windows that depict scenes from the lives of those who died for their faith, along with a memorial shrine. The building includes a museum with historical objects and several spaces dedicated to remembrance.
The site served as an execution ground in the 19th century during the Joseon period when Catholics faced severe persecution and death for their beliefs. This tragic history led to the creation of this memorial place later on.
The church preserves the memory of Korean Catholics who died for their faith, and this remembrance shapes how the space feels and how people gather there today. You can see this reverence reflected in the way the building is maintained and used by the local community.
The site is located near the Han River and welcomes visitors during regular opening hours to walk around and explore. The grounds are well-maintained with clear paths, and you can move freely through the museum and memorial areas at your own pace.
In 1984, Pope John Paul II held a canonization ceremony here where 103 Korean Catholics were officially recognized as saints. This made the site one of the most significant pilgrimage destinations for Catholic believers in Asia.
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