- Address: 157 Jong-ro, Jongno 1 (il) .2 (i) .3 (sam) .4 (sa), Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
- Phone: +82 2-765-0195
- Purpose: Sanctuary
- Date of founding: 14th c.
The huge and bustling metropolis Seoul has long attracted foreign tourists with its dynamic rhythm of life and original culture , based on a combination of ancient and new traditions. Not surprisingly, in a city where almost 10 million people live, there are many quiet and secluded corners where you can enjoy peace and quiet.
The huge and bustling metropolis Seoul has long attracted foreign tourists with its dynamic rhythm of life and original culture , based on a combination of ancient and new traditions. Not surprisingly, in a city where almost 10 million people live, there are many quiet and secluded corners where you can enjoy peace and quiet. One of such places is the most important historical and religious landmark of South Korea - the sanctuary of Chonme. Let's talk more about it.
It is important to know
Chongmyo, located in the central part of Seoul, is one of the main shrines in South Korea. The original purpose of creating the temple, founded in the distant fourteenth century, was the perpetuation of the deceased members of the royal Joseon dynasty. The importance of this place is also evidenced by its geographical position: the sanctuary is surrounded by the famous "Five Great Palaces". Next to it stands Changyonggun Palace, a little to the south of it - Changdeokgun , on the east side - Gyeongbokgun , from the southwest - Toksugun and to the north - Gyeonghong .
Structure of the Chonme Sanctuary
The first and at the same time the main buildings of the complex were built in October 1394, when Daejon, the first king of the Joseon Dynasty, moved the capital to Seoul. Then this structure was considered one of the longest on the whole continent. The largest hall, Jongjon, was divided into 7 rooms for rulers and their wives. Years later the structure was enlarged and expanded, and the number of rooms already reached 20. Although the temple was destroyed during the Imda war, in the 1600s the authorities restored it again, due to which today every visitor can see the main royal shrine of South Korea.
It is worth noting that during the reign of the Joseon Dynasty all the palaces were interconnected, then the Japanese colonizers paved the road between them. Already in our time, a plan was drawn up to restore the former structure of the complex, and soon it will be realized.
Ritual Jongmyo jeryeak
At the moment, on the territory of the temple, an ancient ritual known as Jongmyo jeryeak is held annually, on the 1st Sunday of May. This most important event includes songs and dances, and the music, under which rituals are performed, appeared in the period of Kor (918-1392), for many centuries before Baroque ritual music in Europe. In the melody you can hear the sounds of heavy wind and gentle stringed instruments, and their beautiful combination creates solemn and magnificent music, corresponding to the most important national rite Jongmyo Jeryek.
It is believed that such songs invite spirits to descend from heaven to earth to enjoy the achievements of kings in creating a dynasty and protecting the country, and to encourage descendants to follow in their footsteps. Today members of the Royal Family Association Jeonju Yi conduct rituals to music and dancing, represented by musicians from the National Center for Korean Traditional Performing Arts and dancers from the Gukaku National School.
Where to stay nearby?
Many tourist-beginners, planning a trip, try to book a room in one of the hotels close to important national sights. If you also want to stay at one of the hotels near the Chonmé temple, we recommend that you pay attention to the following places:
- MayPlace Hotel - from 85 $. per day;
- Makers Hotel - from 80 USD;
- Atrium - from 78 cu;
- Amare Hotel Jongno - from 70 USD;
- Hotel Cullinan - от 50 у.е.
How to get there?
Go to the attractions listed on the list of National Treasures of Korea, in several ways:
- By the subway . You should go to Jongno Station 3-ga Station (station No. 130 for 1 line, station No. 329 for 3 lines, station No. 534 for line 5).
- By taxi or private car. Since Jonme is in the central part of the capital, it will be easy to find it by coordinates, even if you are traveling for the first time in Seoul .