Hyeonchungsa temple

Admiral Yi Sun-sin is considered a Korean military hero. William and I visited a temple compound that commemorates his military achievements against the Japanese in the late 1500's and early 1600's. Hyeonchungsa was originally built in Asan, Korea, in 1706.

The Gubonjeon, or Old Main Hall (left photo), was reconstructed in 1932 and moved to its current location.

A new Bonjeon (Main Hall) was built in 1967-8. The painted eves photos here are part of this newer Bonjeon.








I like the intricate architectural details and the bright colors.
A portrait of Admiral Yi is kept in this newer hall. We went on a cold day and there were very few other people around. Even so, there was a pot of incense burning at the entrance to the Bonjeon. I wondered if it is always burning but don't know the answer.


The area also had a museum dedicated to Admiral Yi. There were some interesting ancient artifacts, including this model of a Geobukseon (turtle ship). Invented by Admiral Yi in 1592, the caption indicated that the turtle ship was the world's first ironclad ship. In the Picasa album are more artifact photos.

Parting shots: in front of the Bonjeon. It had a nice view of the mountains.