Banwolseong

Welcome to the absolute heart of the ancient world. I am delighted to be your guide on this scholarly journey through Gyeongju Wolseong. …

As we begin our physical exploration of the fortress, we arrive at the first crucial line of defense for the royal family, the Haeja. The Haeja is the outer moat, a deep, wide trench filled with water that entirely encircled the…

We have now ascended to the top of the Seongbyeok, the great earthen ramparts that form the physical boundary of the crescent moon. Take a deep breath of the crisp air up here and look out over the landscape. …

We have now stepped down from the perimeter wall and entered the interior grounds of the Wolseong plateau. We are currently standing in an area that holds the earliest mythological and historical significance for the entire…

You have now arrived at the very center of the Banwolseong plateau, the area known as the Wanggungteo, or the Central Palace Grounds. Close your eyes and replace the expansive lawns and scattered trees with a dense, awe inspiring…

We have reached the eastern edge of the palace plateau, arriving at the Dongmunji, the historic site of the East Gate. In ancient palace architecture, gates were never merely functional doors; they were monumental structures…

As we walk away from the East Gate ruins, a very distinct and unusual structure comes into view. You are now standing before the Seokbinggo, which translates to the Stone Ice House. …

Step right up to the metal grate protecting the entrance of the Seokbinggo and peer down into the darkness. As you lean in, you will immediately feel a distinct drop in temperature, a cool draft rising from the depths. …

We have reached the concluding area of our walking tour across the Wolseong plateau, arriving at the modern exhibition and video pavilion. After spending our time walking over open grass and peering into earthen mounds and stone…

As our journey through Gyeongju Wolseong comes to a close, I invite you to take one last look across the sweeping crescent of this historic plateau. The sun is likely beginning to lower in the sky, casting long, golden shadows…