Jongmyo Shrine will be Renovated in 30 years

The main building 정전 正殿 of Jongmyo Shrine 종묘 宗廟, a UNESCO World Heritage site and National Treasure located in the center of downtown Seoul, will be renovated in 30 years.

According to the Cultural Heritage Administration Royal Palaces and Tombs Center of the Cultural Heritage Administration,  the National Treasure No. 277 building will be renovated and repaired as early as May as damage to timber and roof tiles, and woldae, a stone square stage in front of the building have been found. 

Housing the spirit tablets 신주 神主 of the former kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty in 19 rooms, Jongmyo was the most important national and royal ritual space during the Dynasty period along with Sajikdan Altar 사직단社稷壇 for performing the national soil and grain rituals. 

It is the longest among Korean traditional buildings, with wings on both sides, therefore when looking down from the air, it is 'ㄷ' shaped.

Repaired in 1990-1991, the building will first be repaired this year, and the centeral part will be renovated by the second half of next year.

In addition, all roof tiles are replaced with 70,000 tiles made in the traditional way. A large quantity of present roof tiles are made from modern plants.

Woldae, a large podium type supporting the building will be dismantled and repaired. 

An Official from the Royal Palaces and Tombs Center said, "The repair work will be completed in 2022, but it may be extended depending on the situation." "temporary construction facilities will be set up during the construction period, but the viewing won't be limited." 

세계유산 종묘 정전, 30년만에 대규모 보수 공사

송고시간2020-02-23 07:00 

박상현 기자

이르면 올 5월부터 내후년까지…목재·기와 바꾸고 월대도 수리