Guardian of the legacy of the Silla Dynasty, Gyeongju presents itself as the witness of a prosperous and glorious past. It embodies the ancient capital of this same dynasty, founded in 57 BC. It has been able to shine for nearly a millennium. Indeed, it is distinguished by the presence of five historic areas classified ►
Guardian of the legacy of the Silla Dynasty, Gyeongju presents itself as the witness of a prosperous and glorious past. It embodies the ancient capital of this same dynasty, founded in 57 BC. It has been able to shine for nearly a millennium. Indeed, it is distinguished by the presence of five historic areas classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
A great symbol of Korean culture, Daereungwon Park is a renowned archaeological site in which many burial mounds of former monarchs and members of the nobility have been erected. One of them, Cheonmachong, open to the public, offers you the immense privilege of admiring the ornaments that accompanied the deceased and how these funerary domes were made. Other well-known tombs are also visible within the city, such as that of King Taejong Muyeol, the 29th King of Silla, and that of Queen Seondeok, the first female ruler of the peninsula.
The latter is at the origin of the construction of the Cheomseongdae in Inwang-dong, an observatory considered one of the oldest on the Asian continent. She has also made a point of honor to promote the spread of Buddhism, and for this, the Bulguksa Temple, located in Gyeongju National Park, is an eloquent example. Built in the 8th century, this architectural jewel houses two sumptuous pagodas, Seokgatap and Dabotap. In addition, an exceptional and unprecedented experience awaits visitors who choose to spend the night during a temple stay. However, you can't just visit the temple when Seokguram Cave is near. A true national treasure of Korea, it contains a giant statue representing Buddha stored in a magnificent granite case.
The Gyeongju National Museum, for its part, is full of relics and remains of the kingdom of Silla and the unified Silla. As for Donggung Palace, the former residence of the crown prince, it invites you to appreciate its architecture of incredible beauty and to walk around the Wolji pond that borders it.
For an even more authentic and immersive experience, don't miss the opportunity to rent a Hanbok, the traditional Korean garment, to enjoy this atmosphere to the smallest detail.
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