Sokkuram was biolt by Prime Minister Kim Daesung in 751 along with the Bulguksa Monastery. I t was reparied by Priest Chongyol in 1703 and the stone staircase was added at this time, and again in 1758 by Priest Daegyom. The entire grotto was dismantled for repair during the Japanese occupation period and again in 1962~1964 to prevent the erosion of stone by dew condensation.
The Grotto
This grotto was built with white granite in the form of a niche and enshrines a seated Buddha at the center surrounded on the wall by 39 Bodhisattvas, 10 disciples, and Devas and quardian kings. It represents the Pure Lnad in which Buddha resides.
This stone cave temple is the crystallization of Shilla's religion, science and art, a monumental achievement of Buddhist culture of the Unified Shilla period.
The Principal Statue
The principal statue in Gupta-style enshrined in the grotto is eated cross-legged on an octagonal base. 2 slits for eyes, gently eyebrows, the wisdom hidden between the eyes, the mouth as if to be opened for preaching and the hanging long ears all combine to represent the sublime state of enlightenment. This magnificent work is perhaps the finest thing in all Korean sculpture.
* UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE, 1995