A Unique Autumn Experience at Solmoe Sanctuary

• List
• More options
  • Edit
  • Delete

• Facebook
• Twitter

When searching for recommended autumn travel destinations,

one often thinks of vibrant autumn leaves or beautiful flower fields.

However, during my recent visit to Solmoe Sanctuary in Dangjin, Chungcheongnam-do,

I encountered a different kind of autumn.

Sunlight filtering through the pine trees,

historic buildings holding memories of the past,

and spaces that invite reflection on a person's life and faith

all come together harmoniously.

This trip was not just about visiting a famous site;

I took the time to walk through various spaces created around Solmoe Sanctuary.

This site is significant in Korean Catholic history as it is the birthplace of

St. Andrew Kim Taegon, the first priest in Korea.

It is also a place where the history of martyrs spans four generations,

from his great-grandfather to his father.

Due to its historical value, Solmoe Sanctuary has been designated as Historic Site No. 529.

The area includes the birthplace of St. Andrew Kim Taegon,

commemorative sculptures, historical sites,

and the Lee Chun-man Art Museum.

Each location tells a different story,

adding depth to the journey the more you explore.

The Lee Chun-man Art Museum, located right next to the church,

features unique representations of Jesus.

Anyone can leisurely explore the intriguing sculptures in this gracious space

during the open hours for free.

Upon arriving at Solmoe Sanctuary,

I first felt a sense of relief from the weight of religious significance.

This place helps one momentarily forget the busy daily life

while enjoying the historical space and the sprawling old pines

along the well-maintained walking paths.

The name Solmoe means 'the place where pines form a mound.'

As I walked through the park,

the meaning behind the name resonated with me.

The shade provided by the ancient pines and the sunlight filtering through the trees

led me to the next highlight, the Cho Bongheon.

This site, recommended as an autumn travel destination,

is a space used for prayers and offerings related to Catholic faith,

rather than a typical tourist exhibition.

I searched for the exact origin of the name Cho Bongheon,

but unfortunately, there were no detailed records nearby.

In autumn, the colors created by the trees, grass,

and sunlight naturally capture the essence in photographs.

Rather than leaving a strong impression like a vibrant flower garden,

I would recommend this place for those who prefer a calm and serene atmosphere.

Next to Cho Bongheon,

the Daejeon Archdiocese History Museum awaits.

What will its interior reveal?

From the entrance, I felt a thrill.

The exterior of the building showcases modern architectural beauty,

while the interior captivates with stained glass and exhibition spaces.

In the area displaying books, artifacts, and religious materials,

I learned why remembering the past is important.

Though the old records and artifacts are traces of the past,

they convey various stories to those living today.

If you encounter nature and historical sculptures outdoors,

the museum offers another perspective through its exhibited works.

During my visit, various photographs of churches, crosses,

and religious symbols were displayed along the white walls.

While one often rushes to find beautiful landscapes when traveling,

here, taking a moment to pause felt more meaningful.

A particularly memorable space for me was the birthplace of St. Andrew Kim Taegon.

Unlike the grand memorial hall,

the neat appearance of the traditional Korean house caught my eye first.

Looking at the tiled roof and wooden pillars

leading to the yard, I envisioned a lifestyle from a completely different era.

This space has been restored based on research of the birthplace of

St. Andrew Kim Taegon, who was born in 1821.

Encountering the house where he spent his childhood

was a different experience from merely viewing an old building.

If you're looking for a special place to visit in Dangjin during your autumn family trip,

I highly recommend Solmoe Sanctuary.

Source :https://blog.naver.com/dangjin2030/224443666575

Like0 Dislike0