Dongmyo (Eastern Shrine) (Seoul)

 shrine, interesting place

Dongmyo, also known as Donggwanwangmyo, means "Eastern Shrine" in metropolitan Seoul built in honor of the 3rd century Chinese military commander, Guan Yu.

The Joseon government embarked on the construction in 1599 and completed the work in 1601. The Wanli Emperor of Ming provided funds for the construction of the shrine, along with a plaque with his own calligraphy. Three shrines - Dongmu (east shrine), Seomu (west shrine) and Jeongjeon (memorial shrine hall) - were actually constructed in 1601.

Donggwanwangmyo is composed of two main buildings attached front and rear, an arrangement found frequently in temples and shrines in China. The interior is divided into front and rear sections. The front room is was used for sacrificial rites, and the backroom houses the statues of Guan Yu and his subordinates. Donggwanwangmyo has important historical value as a 17th century ritual facility that shows Chinese-style architectural characteristics in terms of its wide brick walls, unique roof shapes, statues, interior composition, decorations. etc.