Gameunsa Temple which protected Silla

[Student]
What is the place where two beautiful pagodas stand?

[Teacher]
That is the site of Gameunsa Temple. The buildings of the temple no longer exist and only the two pagodas and the site are remaining. But this temple symbolizes a king's will to secure peace for the kingdom and express appreciation for his father.

[Student]
Peace and appreciation?

[Teacher]
Yes. The construction of this temple began during the reign of King Munmu who ended a prolonged war and completed unification of the peninsula.The king built this temple wishing for the peace and security of Silla.
It was part of his effort to protect the kingdom from the Japanese invaders coming from the East Sea.
But he died before the construction was completed.
So his son who inherited his father's spirit continued the construction with his respect and appreciation for his father.

[Student]
A temple for the kingdom and a father... that's a touching story!

[Teacher]
Yes, it is. And there are uniquely arranged stones at the site of the main building.
The stones are known as the passage built for King Munmu who was believed to become a dragon in the sea.
They believed the late king would come to the temple through that passage.
Also, the two stone pagodas standing like two gate keepers of the East Sea are a shining example of the decorative art of Silla.

[Student]
Well, the more I hear the stories, the more I get interested in this temple.

[Teacher]
OK, then let's go to see it. How about starting from the stone pagodas?