Cheonjinam, Sacred grove in Gwangju, South Korea.
Cheonjinam is a Catholic shrine in Gwangju nestled in a wooded area at about 667 meters elevation. The site combines a church, museum, research center, and natural forest spaces within a unified complex.
The location became a refuge for Catholics during persecution in 1801 and grew into an important center for the development of Catholicism in Korea. Several founding figures of the Korean church are buried here.
This place serves as a pilgrimage site for Korean Catholics, functioning today as a center for religious gatherings and community events. Visitors can observe how people use the spaces for spiritual practices and meetings.
The grounds are easily accessible with pathways through the wooded landscape and buildings open for viewing. Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain is hilly and the natural surroundings invite exploration.
The site houses a museum that documents the history of Catholicism in Korea and how the faith developed in this country. Ongoing construction of a large cathedral shows that the place continues to expand and evolve.
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