10 Things to Do in Iksan Catholic Cathedral (익산 성당)
Iksan Catholic Cathedral, located in Iksan, South Korea, is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture. Built in 1887, it stands as one of the oldest and most iconic churches in the country. Whether you’re a religious person or not, this cathedral is a must-see for anyone visiting Iksan. Here are 10 things to do in Iksan Catholic Cathedral:
1. Attend Mass: The Iksan Catholic Cathedral is still an active church, so you can attend mass here and take part in the traditional Catholic services. The cathedral is open for mass every day, so you can enjoy the beautiful architecture and the solemn atmosphere of the church while taking part in the service.
2. Explore the Interior: The interior of the Iksan Catholic Cathedral is just as impressive as the exterior. The church is filled with beautiful stained glass windows, elaborate sculptures, and a large statue of the Virgin Mary. You can explore the church and marvel at the stunning artwork and architecture.
3. Take Photos: Iksan Catholic Cathedral is a great place to take photos. The exterior of the church is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, and the interior is just as impressive. You can take photos of the church from the outside or explore the interior and take photos of the stained glass windows, sculptures, and other artwork.
4. Visit the Crypt: The Iksan Catholic Cathedral has a crypt underneath the church. The crypt contains the remains of several Korean saints, including St. Andrew Kim Taegon and St. Paul Chong Hasang. You can explore the crypt and learn about the lives of these saints.
5. Attend a Concert: The Iksan Catholic Cathedral often hosts concerts in its large and beautiful sanctuary. The acoustics of the church make it a great place to listen to classical music, and you can enjoy the beauty of the church while listening to the music.
6. Participate in a Pilgrimage: Iksan Catholic Cathedral is a popular destination for pilgrims. Every year, thousands of people visit the church to take part in a pilgrimage. During the pilgrimage, you can explore the church and take part in religious services.
7. Visit the Museum: The Iksan Catholic Cathedral also has a museum that showcases the history of the church and the Catholic faith in Korea. The museum contains artifacts and artwork from the church’s history, as well as information about the lives of Korean saints.
8. Explore the Grounds: The grounds of the Iksan Catholic Cathedral are just as impressive as the church itself. The grounds are filled with trees, flowers, and other plants, and you can explore the grounds and admire the beauty of the church.
9. Take a Tour: The Iksan Catholic Cathedral offers guided tours of the church and its grounds. The tours are a great way to learn about the history of the church and the Catholic faith in Korea.
10. Enjoy the Views: The Iksan Catholic Cathedral offers stunning views of the surrounding area. You can take in the views of the city and the countryside from the church’s grounds.
Iksan Catholic Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture and a must-see destination for anyone visiting Iksan. Whether you’re a religious person or not, you can enjoy the beauty of the church and take part in its many activities.