Namsansinseong Fortress, Gyeongju

This Silla-period mountain fortress lies on the north side of Namsan Mountain in Gyeongju and is also known as Silla Namsansinseong Fortress. It is said to have been built in the 13th year of King Jinpyeong of Silla (591), and to have been substantially rebuilt in the 19th year of King Munmu (679); the sections of wall that survive well today are thought to date from this later construction. The fortress was built of stone centred on the summit of Namsan Mountain, and inside it stood three large storehouses used to keep weapons and grain in preparation for war. A stele found near the fortress, the Namsansinseong Stele, bears an inscription recording a pledge that people gathered from across the country each took charge of building a set length of wall, and that anyone whose section collapsed within three years would be punished; it also records the office, name and place of origin of each person involved. Commanding a wide view over the Gyeongju plain, this mountain fortress, together with Seohyeongsanseong Fortress to the west, Myeonghwalseong Fortress to the east and Bukhyeongsanseong Fortress to the north, guarded the Silla royal capital and is of considerable historical significance; even today, burnt rice is said to be found on the site of the large storehouses. The name has been changed from Gyeongju Namsanseong Fortress to Namsansinseong Fortress, Gyeongju (announced 28 July 2011).

AI Translation

Where it is

Region

Gyeongju, Gyeongbuk

Designation

Historic Site · 사적