Exploring the Historical Significance of Sinri Sanctuary in Dangjin
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Dangjin, bordered by land and sea, has been a vital transportation hub and a center for military and administrative defense during the Joseon Dynasty. In the late Joseon period, a Catholic faith community was established early on. This historical background has led to a wealth of cultural heritage, which continues to be preserved with ongoing restoration efforts. Each year, news of heritage conservation projects emerges, and this summer, I visited a site that underwent maintenance: the Sinri Daeblue Bishop's residence.
Located between the expansive Dangjin Hapdeok plains, Sinri Sanctuary offers breathtaking views. The scenery changes with the agricultural seasons from late spring to autumn. Being close to the West Sea, Sinri Sanctuary was among the first to embrace Catholic doctrine, leading to the formation of a doctrine village. It became the largest Catholic community in Joseon, serving as a secret entry point for missionaries.
The wide grassy area adjacent to the Hapdeok plains is lush, featuring a tower, a church, and the residence of Bishop Daeblue, along with Cafe Cita Nuova. Amidst this exotic landscape, visitors can explore Catholic history while enjoying a peaceful retreat.
This summer, the conservation project focused on the Bishop Daeblue residence, which is a thatched-roof house located to the right of the church. A statue of Bishop Daeblue greets visitors at the entrance. This site was the birthplace of St. Thomas Sonjasun and the secret residence of Bishop Daeblue, the fifth bishop of Korea.
Bishop Daeblue entered Korea in October 1845, primarily working in the Naepo region. He was martyred during the Byeongin Persecution in 1866. Before his martyrdom, he stayed at the birthplace of St. Thomas Sonjasun. Both Bishop Daeblue and St. Thomas Sonjasun were martyred, and in 1927, local Catholics raised funds to dedicate the site to the Catholic Church, which was later used as a chapel.
The bishop's residence, built 200 years ago, underwent several renovations, altering its form and function. In 2003, it was restored to its original thatched-roof structure after historical verification. It was designated a cultural property in 2008, ensuring its preservation. A wooden plaque labeled 'Bishop Daeblue Residence' hangs at the entrance, showcasing furniture and a statue of the Virgin Mary that likely dates back to that time.
Upon my return to the Bishop Daeblue residence after about a year, I noticed traces of restoration, including wooden pillars and a porch. Sections showing signs of deterioration were carefully dismantled and preserved. Old timber was replaced with new wood, maintaining the original appearance while enhancing safety and preserving the cultural value.
From the Bishop Daeblue residence, one can view the church, the martyrdom art museum tower, and the vast green fields all at once. Sitting on the porch, I enjoyed the summer greenery. It is a peaceful scene, yet it reminds us of the deep suffering of faith that occurred 160 years ago in 1866.
The church is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, with mass held at 11 AM. Interested visitors are welcome to join.
Cafe Cita Nuova, converted from an old grain warehouse, serves as a cultural space and a resting spot, hosting permanent exhibitions. The view of the Hapdeok plains from the cafe is stunning, showcasing beautiful rice paddies. A visit to Sinri Sanctuary is incomplete without stopping by the martyrdom art museum, which exhibits 13 recorded paintings of martyrdom by Korean artist Lee Jong-sang. The outdoor observatory offers spectacular views of Sinri Sanctuary, the village, and the expansive plains.
As summer deepens, Sinri Sanctuary is enveloped in lush greenery. Enjoy the freshness of midsummer while witnessing the cultural preservation efforts in Dangjin. A leisurely stroll through this serene environment rejuvenated my spirit.
Sinri Sanctuary: 135 Pyeongya 6-ro, Hapdeok-eup, Dangjin-si, Chungcheongnam-do.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/dangjin2030/224331786527
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