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Gwangju Hyanggyo - 광주향교 (光州鄕校) (15th century onward)

A 'hyanggyo' is a state-sponsored academy where students studied Confucianism and prepared for the civil service examinations. Although some hyanggyo were founded during the Goryeo dynasty (918-1392) most were founded in the early Joseon dynasty (1392-1910). Gwangju Hyanggyo was probably established in the early 15th century. Originally it was located at the base of Mt. Seosuk but was moved to the present location in 1488 because of frequent attacks by wild tigers. It was burned in 1597 during the Japanese invasion and rebuilt in 1600. Another major fire occurred in 1910 but was rebuilt by the mayor of Gwangju.

The layout of the hyanggyo is typical of sites built on hillsides. The upper courtyard consists of a central shrine (Daeseongjeon) with two smaller shrines facing each other. The central shrine contains memorial tablets to Confucius, Chinese Confucian scholars, and various Korean scholars. The east and west shrines (Dongjae and Seojae) enshrine various local scholars. The courtyard below the shrines is flanked by student dormitories on the east and west and a lecture hall (Myeongryundang) on the south side. To the west of the lecture hall and dormitories are several subsidiary buildings built in later years.

Address: 광주 남구 구동 22-3.

(Designated City Tangible Cultural Property #9).