Gunwi Samjon Seokgul Grotto
군위 아미타여래삼존 석굴
A 7th-century grotto of Buddhist statues carved into the cliff on the northern foot of Palgongsan, older than Seokguram in Gyeongju and known as the “Second Seokguram”; a National Treasure of Korea.
The Gunwi Amitabha Triad Grotto is located on the northern foot of Palgongsan (Gunwi County was merged into Daegu in 2023). The grotto is carved into a natural rock wall about 20 meters high, housing a standing Amitabha Buddha and two standing bodhisattvas. It is believed to have been carved in the late 7th century, around the time of Silla's unification, earlier than Seokguram in Gyeongju, and is therefore called the “Second Seokguram”. It is a National Treasure of Korea. To protect the relics, visitors can only view the grotto from below. The surrounding valley and temples add to the setting. Admission is free. Getting there: about 1 hour by car from downtown; public transport requires a transfer at Gunwi, so driving or hiring a car is recommended, and it can be combined with the northern trails of Palgongsan.
Opening hours
About 09:00–18:00
Nearby sights
- Palgongsan Cable Car
- Palgongsan & Donghwasa
- Gatbawi (Stone Seated Buddha of Gwanbong)
- Bullo-dong Tumuli Park
- Otgol Village
- Gyeongsang Gamyeong Park
- Gukchae-bosang Movement Memorial Park
- Dalseong Park