Heungdeoksa Temple site

The Heungdeoksa temple site, located in Heungdeok-gu, South Korea, is a historic site marking the location of a significant Buddhist temple from the Unified Silla and Goryeo periods. Constructed prior to 848 CE, the temple was an important religious center until its destruction by fire in the late 1370s CE. Archaeological excavations in 1985 confirmed the temple's location, revealing artifacts such as a bronze gong and bowl with inscriptions, signifying its historical importance. Notably, the temple was the site where the Buljojikjisimcheyojoel, the world's oldest extant book printed with movable metal type, was produced in 1377 CE, predating the Gutenberg Bible. The site's archaeological significance is underscored by its designation as a historic site and the presence of reconstructed elements like a prayer hall and pagoda.