description Jongmyo Shrine Overview
Jongmyo Shrine is a royal Confucian shrine located in Seoul, South Korea, dedicated to the memorial services for the deceased kings and queens of the Joseon dynasty. It was originally established in 1395 by King Taejo, the founder of the Joseon dynasty. The shrine complex is the oldest surviving royal Confucian shrine, featuring distinct traditional Korean architecture and long stone paths. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 and continues to host the annual Jongmyo Jerye memorial ritual.
help Jongmyo Shrine FAQ
Who built the Jongmyo Shrine?
The Jongmyo Shrine was originally established in 1395 by King Taejo, the founder of the Joseon dynasty. It was built in the capital city of Seoul, South Korea, to house the memorial tablets of the royal family.
What is the Jongmyo Jerye?
The Jongmyo Jerye is the traditional royal ancestral ritual still performed at the shrine, accompanied by court music known as Jongmyo Jeryeak. Recognized by UNESCO, this solemn ceremony takes place on the first Sunday of May each year.
Why was the Jongmyo Shrine destroyed and rebuilt?
The original wooden structures were destroyed during the Japanese invasions of Korea in the late 16th century. The shrine was subsequently rebuilt in the 17th century and has largely retained its current layout since then.
What architectural style is the Jongmyo Shrine?
The shrine is a masterpiece of traditional Korean Confucian architecture, noted for its long, horizontal lines and lack of heavy ornamentation. The main hall, Jeongjeon, is the longest wooden building in Korea, featuring 19 spirit chambers.
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