Anyangsa Temple (Anyang)

Anyangsa Temple holds the story of King Taejo Wang Geon of Goryeo. Before Wang Geon founded Goryeo, while passing through Samseongsan Mountain on his way to occupy Geumju (now Siheung) and Gwaju (now Gwacheon), he saw five-colored clouds rising from the mountain peak and looked upon them in wonder. At that moment, a monk named Neungjeong suddenly appeared and said, 'The five-colored clouds protect from all directions, so a new kingdom will surely arise,' adding, 'If you build a temple here and call it Anyangsa, a peaceful and prosperous era will continue for generations.' It is said that Wang Geon heeded this advice and founded Anyangsa Temple. The original Anyangsa, built in the early 10th century and existing until the 16th century, was located at the site of Jungchosa Temple, where the Anyang Museum and the Kim Chung-up Architecture Museum now stand. The current Anyangsa Temple was rebuilt after the Korean War, taking a new site inside Samseongsan Mountain to honor the old Anyangsa.

(Source: Anyang City Culture and Tourism Website)