Cheongju Heungdeoksa Site | Attraction Guide | K-Travel Mate

This is the site of a Unified Silla Dynasty temple located in Uncheon-dong, Cheongju. During an excavation in 1985, the remains of buildings including the main hall, west corridor, lecture hall, and ancillary buildings were confirmed, and a fragment of a bronze bell inscribed with 'Heungdeoksa' revealed the temple’s name. Based on roof tiles inscribed with 'Daejung 3-nyeon' (the 3rd year of Daejung) and other relics, it is believed to have been built by the 9th century at the latest and maintained its existence until the late Goryeo period. Many roof tile pieces, ornamental ends (chimi), pottery, and bronze items were excavated. This site is also where the oldest extant metal type print book in the world, "Jikji Simche Yojeol," was printed. (Source: Cultural Heritage Administration)