Haeinsa Temple Janggyeong Panjeon, the Depositories for the Tripitaka Koreana Woodblocks in South Korea

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Cultural Heritage Administration
View photos from OUR PLACE the World Heritage collection
Korea Tourism Organization

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1995
Size of heritage:

Coordinates:
Longitude: 128,100°
Latitude: 35,800°

Summary

The Temple of Haeinsa, on Mount Gaya, is home to the Tripitaka Koreana , the most complete collection of Buddhist texts, engraved on 80,000 woodblocks between 1237 and 1248. The buildings of Janggyeong Panjeon, which date from the 15th century, were constructed to house the woodblocks, which are also revered as exceptional works of art. As the oldest depository of the Tripitaka , they reveal an astonishing mastery of the invention and implementation of the conservation techniques used to preserve these woodblocks.

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Introduction

The Haeinsa Temple Janggyeong Panjeon, also known as the Depositories for the Tripitaka Koreana Woodblocks, is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in South Korea. Situated in the Haeinsa Temple complex, this cultural treasure holds immense historical and religious significance. The temple is located at coordinates N35 47 60 E128 5 60.

History

The Haeinsa Temple was established in 802 during the Unified Silla period. However, it was not until the Goryeo Dynasty in the 13th century that the Janggyeong Panjeon was constructed. The purpose of building these depositories was to preserve the Tripitaka Koreana, a complete set of Buddhist scriptures carved onto wooden blocks.

The construction of the Janggyeong Panjeon was a remarkable feat of engineering and craftsmanship. The depositories were built using a unique architectural technique called "Janggyeong Panjeoncheong," which involved using multiple layers of wood to create a well-ventilated and moisture-controlled environment. This technique ensured the preservation of the woodblocks for centuries.

Current State

Today, the Haeinsa Temple Janggyeong Panjeon continues to serve its original purpose of preserving the Tripitaka Koreana woodblocks. These woodblocks are considered one of the most accurate and complete collections of Buddhist scriptures in the world. The depositories provide an ideal environment for the long-term preservation of these invaluable cultural artifacts.

The Janggyeong Panjeon consists of three main buildings: the Manse Daejeokgwangjeon, the Beopbojeon, and the Janggyeonggak. The Manse Daejeokgwangjeon is the main hall where the woodblocks are stored. It is a two-story building with a total of 52 rooms, each housing a different set of woodblocks. The Beopbojeon is the hall where Buddhist rituals and ceremonies take place, while the Janggyeonggak serves as a library and research center.

The preservation of the woodblocks is a meticulous process. The temperature and humidity inside the depositories are carefully controlled to prevent deterioration. The woodblocks are periodically rotated to ensure even exposure to light and air. Additionally, the depositories are equipped with advanced fire prevention and security systems to safeguard these precious cultural treasures.

Significance

The Haeinsa Temple Janggyeong Panjeon holds immense historical, religious, and cultural significance. The Tripitaka Koreana woodblocks are not only valuable for their religious content but also for their historical and linguistic importance. They provide valuable insights into the culture, language, and history of ancient Korea.

The Janggyeong Panjeon is also a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the ancient Koreans. The architectural techniques used in its construction demonstrate their advanced knowledge of wood preservation and environmental control.

Conclusion

The Haeinsa Temple Janggyeong Panjeon, with its well-preserved Tripitaka Koreana woodblocks, stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of South Korea. Its historical significance, architectural brilliance, and ongoing preservation efforts make it a truly remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors to this site can witness the enduring legacy of ancient Korean civilization and gain a deeper understanding of Buddhist culture and history.