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Architect's Choice
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UNESCO World Heritage
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Jongmyo Shrine, located in Jongno-gu, Seoul, is a Confucian royal shrine dedicated to the spirit tablets of the kings and queens, emperors, and empresses of the Joseon Dynasty.
Jongmyo served as a venue for national ancestral rites throughout the Joseon Dynasty. Although burned down during the Japanese invasions of Korea in the 16th century, it was restored in 1601 and continues to this day.
Jongmyo Shrine holds a traditional ancestral rite, Jongmyo Daeje, annually. This ritual, one of the world’s oldest Confucian rituals and designated as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, is one of the world’s oldest. The kings’ performances of music, dance, and rituals during the rites are a significant cultural event that provides a glimpse into Joseon’s royal culture.
Jongmyo Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the world’s oldest and best-preserved Confucian royal shrine. The main buildings are Jeongjeon (Jeongjeon) and Yeongnyeongjeon. Jeongjeon houses the spirit tablets of 19 kings and 30 queens, while Yeongnyeongjeon houses the spirit tablets of 16 kings and 18 queens.
