Gyeongju, the capital city of the Silla dynasty, is dotted with UNESCO World Cultural Heritages Sites, including Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto, Yangdong Village, and the Gyeongju Historic Area.
UNESCO World Heritages
Gyeongju Historic Areas
(Designated 2000)
The Gyeongju Historic Area is a noteworthy attraction in Korea, where the legacy and culture of the Silla dynasty, which ruled from 57 BC to AD 935, are well-preserved in its pagodas, tombs, fortresses, and more. During its time as the capital city of Silla, Gyeongju was a perfect representation of Korean architecture and Buddhism.
The area is divided into five zones, each with its own distinct characteristics: Namsan Mountain, a hub of Buddhist culture; Wolseong Fortress, the royal grounds of the Silla dynasty; Daereungwon Ancient Tomb, the final resting place of high-ranking officials, including Silla kings; Hwangnyongsa Temple, showcasing the essence of Silla Buddhism; and Sanseong Fortress, highlighting the defense system of the royal capital.
Prominent sites within the historic area include Poseokjeong Pavilion Site, Sinseonam Hermitage's Rock-carved Bodhisattva, Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond, Cheomseongdae Observatory, Ancient Tombs in Hwangnam-ri, Daereungwon Ancient Tomb Complex, Hwangnyongsa Temple Site, and Bunhwangsa Temple.
Poseokjeong Pavilion Site is located on the western side of Namsan Mountain and features a stone waterway carved into a rock platform, symbolizing the Silla people's love of relaxation.
Cheomseongdae Observatory, built during the reign of Queen Seondeok, was used to study the stars and is Asia's oldest existing astronomical observatory.
Bunhwangsa Temple was the residence of the prominent Buddhist priest Wonhyo, and its stone brick pagoda is a must-see in Gyeongju.
The tomb of Cheonmachong, located in the Daereungwon Ancient Tomb Complex, is the only tomb open to the public.
It was named after the discovery of a painting of a heavenly horse and contains over 10,000 remains and artifacts, providing valuable resources for the study of ancient art and cultural exchange.
Nearby attractions
- Seokbinggo (Stone Ice Storage)
- Gyeongju Gyochon Traditional Village
- Gyeongju Namsan Mountain
- Seokguram Grotto
- Bulguksa Temple
- Gyeongju Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond
