Exploring Solmoe Sanctuary: A Journey Through Catholic History


▲ Solmoe Sanctuary
The weather has been quite warm lately.
It's the perfect time for a walk or a drive on the weekends.
Last Saturday, I visited Solmoe Sanctuary in Dangjin.
Solmoe Sanctuary is a place where you can explore the history of Catholicism and enjoy a pleasant walk along scenic paths.
▲ Parking Lot
Parking at Solmoe Sanctuary is free.
On the day of my visit, the parking lot was not very crowded.
Even if there are many visitors, the spacious parking area alleviates any parking concerns.
▲ Local Food Market
Right in front of the parking lot is the Solmoe Local Food Market.
You can find fresh produce, seafood, snacks, and convenience items, making it a great stop before or after your visit to the sanctuary.
▲ Deck Path
Behind the market, there is a deck path lined with tall trees, which will be beautiful in the summer.
This is also part of the Bugnae Pilgrimage Trail, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
▲ Memory and Hope Building
Next, I visited the largest building, Memory and Hope.
It houses the Lee Chun-man Art Museum, the Main Sanctuary, and an exhibition hall, designed to resemble a rose!
▲ Main Sanctuary
Upon entering, the Main Sanctuary is the first area you encounter.
Please note that from 11 AM to 12 PM, mass is held, restricting entry during that time.
Silence is also required, so visitors should be mindful of this.
▲ Exhibition Hall
Next to the Main Sanctuary, the exhibition hall was open for viewing.
I learned about the martyrs of the Kim Dae-geon family and the history of Solmoe Sanctuary.
It took a long time and effort, starting from the restoration of Father Kim Dae-geon’s thoughts in 2004 to the completion of Memory and Hope in 2021.
▲ Lee Chun-man Art Museum
Across from the exhibition hall is the Lee Chun-man Art Museum.
The artist, Lee Chun-man, is a first-generation modern sculptor who began sculpting after meeting Kim Se-jung, a pioneer in Christian art.
▲ Path of the Cross
After visiting the art museum, I headed towards the Path of the Cross, located on the opposite side of Memory and Hope.
This path depicts the 14 stages of Jesus’ crucifixion through sculptures.
▲ Solmoe Arena

On the way to the birthplace of Father Kim Dae-geon, you will naturally encounter Solmoe Arena, surrounded by striking sculptures.
▲ Birthplace of Father Kim Dae-geon
In front of the birthplace stands a statue of Pope Francis.
During his visit in 2014, it seems he offered prayers for Father Kim Dae-geon.
You can find a prayer inscribed in front of the statue.
Today, I introduced Solmoe Sanctuary, a beautiful place to walk and a significant site of Catholic history.
As the weather improves, why not plan a visit to Solmoe Sanctuary?
▲ Images
Source :https://blog.naver.com/sinmunman/224240175981
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