Seokguram Grotto is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site and represents the pinnacle of Silla’s sophisticated architectural skills.

A grotto refers to a temple built within a cave, offering Buddhist monks a cool space for meditation during summer. This 1200-year-old grotto was constructed uniquely, blending the concept of caves from India with the dome-style roof from the West, showcasing Silla’s distinctive architectural techniques.

This grotto is an artificial stone cave assembled by stacking granite blocks, akin to an igloo. The process involved carving granite blocks, stacking them in a mound shape, and covering them with dirt. Constructing such a sophisticated architectural marvel necessitated extensive knowledge of mathematics, geometry, and advanced architectural skills.

Kim Dae-Seong, an aristocrat of Silla, constructed the grotto. Legend has it that he built Seokguram Grotto for his parents in a previous life and Bulguksa Temple for his parents in the present life.

Visitors must climb some stairs to reach Seokguram Grotto. In Buddhism, stairs symbolize life's hardships. However, let's not dwell on it too much ? instead, notice how the ascent helps to pacify your mind as you ascend.