Baekryonsa Temple is
said to have been founded during the reign
of King
Shinmun-wang of the Shilla Kingdom, when a white lotus suddenly appeared following the death
of Backryun-sonsa, a buddhist monk who lived here in seclusion. Hence the
name Baekryonsa means "White
Lotus Temple".
This is the only remaining temple among the
14 that once existed in the valley. Passing Iljumun Gate across
Backryun Bridge at the entrance to the temple, one will be confronted
by a 108-step stairway, ascending to the main hall.
The
stairway symbolizes the 108 evil
passions of Buddhism. The stairway has long
served as an ordination altar for monks. Many prominent priests
came from this temple. The temple houses a stupa to Maewoltang (Local Tangible Cultural Property
No. 43).
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