Gungnae

Welcome to Gungnae City, the beating heart of the ancient Goguryeo Kingdom at its zenith. Located in modern-day Ji'an, China, this site served as the kingdom's second capital for over 400 years, from 3 AD until 427 AD. …

We start our exploration at the remains of the Inner City walls. These fortifications are a testament to the Goguryeo people's 'strategic ingenuity and architectural skills.' The walls were built using massive, meticulously cut…

In the center of the inner city lies the site of the Royal Palace complex. Although the wooden structures have long since perished, the foundations and stone platforms remain, revealing a 'grand layout with wide avenues and…

Beyond the palace, the city of Gungnae was laid out in a precise grid pattern, with streets intersecting at right angles. This 'main residential and commercial area' is where the majority of the population lived and worked. …

One of the most fascinating aspects of Gungnae City is the evidence of its thriving artisan class. In the commercial districts, archaeologists have unearthed workshops dedicated to ironworking, pottery, and jewelry making. …

To truly understand Gungnae, we must look to its predecessor: Wunyu Mountain City, located near Huanren. The move from the mountainous fortress of Wunyu to the flatland city of Gungnae was a pivotal moment in Goguryeo history. …

Just outside the main city walls of Gungnae lies a vast landscape of tombs, often referred to as the 'City of the Dead.' The Goguryeo people believed that the afterlife was a continuation of their earthly existence, and as such,…

As we conclude our journey through Gungnae City, we are left with 'echoes of the past' that provide 'lessons for the future.' This ancient capital, once a 'vibrant cultural hub' and a 'center of political power,' now stands as a…