Five French missionaries, including Bishop Berneux and Father Daveluy, were executed here in 1866.
The name 'Galmaemot' refers to a site shaped like a horse's mouth located along the coast.
The location was specifically chosen for executions because it was far from the center of Hanyang, minimizing the public visibility of the martyrs.
The shrine contains the relics of Saint Siméon-François Berneux, Saint Antoine Daveluy, and other martyrs.
The memorial chapel is constructed to face the ocean to symbolize the connection between the martyrs' sacrifice and the sea.
The site was officially designated as a Catholic pilgrimage site due to its significance in the Byeongin Persecution.
Galmaemot Catholic Martyrs' Shrine is a historic site in Boryeong marking the location where French missionary priests and Korean Catholics were executed during the 1866 Byeongin Persecution. The site is situated directly on the coast, where the executions took place on the beach by the seawater. It features a memorial chapel, outdoor stations of the cross, and a dedicated exhibition space recounting the history of the site. The architecture integrates natural stone and maritime elements to reflect the sanctity of the martyrdom. It serves as a pilgrimage destination for Catholics and a historical monument regarding Korea's religious history.
The memorial chapel overlooking the Yellow Sea at dusk.
Walk the outdoor Stations of the Cross path along the coastal area for the full meditative experience.
Visit the small exhibition hall to read the historical context of the 1866 persecution before walking the grounds.
Dress in layers as the coastal wind can be strong regardless of the season.
Do not treat the site as a recreational beach; it is a sacred space for prayer and remembrance.
Maintain a quiet and respectful tone; refrain from loud conversation or playing music.
