Seven-Story Stone Pagoda in Tappyeong-ri (Chungju)

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The Seven-Story Stone Pagoda in Tappyeong-ri, represents the Jungwon period. It is also known as Jungangtap, which literally means "Central Pagoda", because it is located at what was the center of the Unified Silla territory. Many stone pagodas date to the Silla period, but this is the only one with seven stories. Archaeologists differ as to exactly when this pagoda was built, but it is believed to date to the late 8th or early 9th century.

Th pagoda stands on a two-tier base made of ten huge rectangular stones. It rises 12.95m/42.5ft and tapers off at the top, giving the pagoda a strong a sense of rising into the sky.

The pagoda was dismantled and restored several times through the centuries, and it may not retain its original appearance. When it was restored in 1917, an ancient document, two copper minors, a wooden lacquered box, and a silver box containing relics of Buddha were discovered in the sixth level and a bronze box was found in the base. The copper mirrors date to the Goryeo period, when it is believed that this pagoda was significantly altered.

It is presumed that the area around the pagoda was once a temple site, since roof tiles are sometimes discovered there, and part of a stone lantern pedestal lies close to the pagoda.

The base is sufficiently wide to support the pagoda’s lofty body, each corner of which is carved with a stone pillar. Each roof stone is supported by a five-story stone support, and the four corners of the roof stones are slightly raised at the end, conferring vitality to the pagoda, which might otherwise look heavy. The ornamental finial at the top exhibits a unique style in which two similar supporting stones are piled.

The Seven-Story Stone Pagoda in Tappyeong-ri is National Treasure #6.