Gunwi Buddha Triad Grotto (2nd Seokguram)

At the Hantijae Peak of Palgongsan Mountain in Daegu, is the Gunwi Buddha Triad Grotto, referred to as "the 2nd Seokguram Grotto". This grotto, designated as a National Treasure, is a natural cave on a sheer cliff. There is the beautiful Amitabul Buddha, the Bodhisattva of Power and the Bodhisattva of Compassion. The cave is 4.25 meters wide and 4.3 meters long, and is located 20 meters above the ground. This grotto is the progenitor of the Gyeongju Seokgulam Grotto, preceding the construction of Seokguram grotto by 100 years. It has been designated as a world cultural heritage. The square-shaped ceiling is highest in the middle of the chamber. The Amitabul Buddha sits in the center with the Bodhisattva of Power and the Bodhisattva of Compassion flanking its left and right sides. The main Buddha is very refined and graceful with short hair and a divine smile on its face, sitting with crossed legs in a full-lotus posture.