E2024-G108

Sajikdan Altar: Praying to the Spirits of the Land and Grain

Narrative

Sajikdan Altar refers to a place where rituals for the spirits of the land and grain were held. According to records, such altars existed in Korea since ancient times. During the Joseon period (1392-1910), they were established by the government in important locations across the country, including the capital. The Sajikdan Altar in Gwangju was located across Gwangjucheon Stream from Gwangjueupseong Walled Town, where the local government office was located. The local Confucian school Gwangjuhyanggyo, was located just to its north.

The altar was demolished in 1924 during the Japanese colonial period (1910-1945) to create a park to commemorate the marriage of Japan's crown prince. In 1971, the city government built a zoo and swimming pool in the park. In the early 1990s, the zoo was relocated and the altar was rebuilt. Since 2016, the traditional rituals have been reenacted at the altar as part of a festival celebrating Dano Day. Located within Sajik Park are Gwandeokjeong Archery Center, Sajik Public Library, an observatory, and a ourdoor concert hall, among other facilities.