Thursday, September 19, 2013

NORTH KOREA ~Bell of Yonbok Temple-UNESCO

..Received my second North Korea postcard... probably the most secret and closed country in the world... Thanks again Gisela!!


With really nice stamps!!



The South Gate was built between 1391 and 1393, at the same time as the inner citadel of the walled city. The citadel used to have seven gates, but only Nam Gate is left. During the Korea War is was severely damaged and rebuilt in 1954.

 On the gate there is a pavilion. Inside is the Yonbok Bell. It was cast in 1346, is 3,3 meters high and weighing 14 tonnes its covered with figures of tortoises, crabes, dragon, phoenix, deer and images of the Budha, and the two dragons on top of the bell indicate "intrepid spirit". The bell originates from Yonbok Temple, which was destroyed by fire in 1563.

Until the beginning of the 20th century the bell was used to call the hours and this could be heard until 4 km from the city.

2 comments:

  1. Wow, you're so lucky! How did you manage to receive two postcards from North Korea? :)

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    1. Thanks to sooooo many wonderful people worldwide!! ^__^

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