Hwaseong Fortress in South Korea

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Cultural Properties Administration
Korea Tourism Organization

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1997
Size of heritage:

Coordinates:
Longitude: 127,008°
Latitude: 37,272°

Summary

When the Joseon King Jeongjo moved his father's tomb to Suwon at the end of the 18th century, he surrounded it with strong defensive works, laid out according to the precepts of an influential military architect of the period, who brought together the latest developments in the field from both East and West. The massive walls, extending for nearly 6 km, still survive; they are pierced by four gates and equipped with bastions, artillery towers and other features.

Location on Map

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Introduction

Hwaseong Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Suwon, Gyeonggi-do Province, South Korea. This magnificent fortress, built in the late 18th century, is a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Joseon Dynasty. With its well-preserved walls, gates, and other structures, Hwaseong Fortress stands as a symbol of South Korea's rich cultural heritage.

History

The construction of Hwaseong Fortress began in 1794 under the orders of King Jeongjo, the 22nd ruler of the Joseon Dynasty. The king envisioned the fortress as a tribute to his father, Crown Prince Sado, who tragically died at a young age. The fortress was designed to serve multiple purposes, including defense, administration, and as a royal palace.

Over the course of six years, thousands of workers and craftsmen labored tirelessly to complete the fortress. The construction process involved innovative techniques, such as using movable wooden scaffolding to build the walls. The fortress was strategically positioned on a hill, surrounded by mountains and rivers, providing a natural defense against potential invaders.

Architecture

Hwaseong Fortress spans a total length of 5.52 kilometers and encloses an area of 1.3 square kilometers. The fortress is comprised of four main gates, including the Janganmun Gate, Paldalmun Gate, Changnyongmun Gate, and Hwaseomun Gate. Each gate is intricately designed and adorned with beautiful decorations, showcasing the artistic prowess of the Joseon Dynasty.

The fortress also features various military facilities, such as watchtowers, bastions, and arrow launcher platforms. These structures were strategically placed to provide optimal defense and surveillance capabilities. Additionally, Hwaseong Fortress includes several pavilions, temples, and royal residences, adding to its architectural grandeur.

Current State

Hwaseong Fortress has undergone extensive restoration and preservation efforts over the years to maintain its original splendor. The fortress was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997, recognizing its outstanding universal value. Today, visitors can explore the fortress and witness its historical significance firsthand.

The fortress offers a variety of attractions and activities for tourists. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the fortress walls, enjoying panoramic views of Suwon and its surrounding landscapes. The Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival, held annually, showcases traditional Korean performances, crafts, and cuisine, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Furthermore, Hwaseong Fortress serves as a venue for various cultural events and exhibitions. The fortress hosts traditional martial arts demonstrations, music concerts, and historical reenactments, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant history of South Korea.

Conclusion

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

Videos from the area

Vic´s South Korea Calling-Hwaseong Fortress, 화성

Published: March 05, 2014
Length: 00:00 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: VvicsieE78

Vic´s South Korea Calling-Day 4 Now we are going to explore the Unesco World Heritage Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon. The Fortress walls are surrounding the old town of Suwon and you can ...

My Walk to School - Korea, September 2010

Published: February 09, 2013
Length: 38:12 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Evan Bleker

www.EvanBleker.com Back in 2010 I lived in Suwon, Korea, in an apartment that was just a 7 minute walk from the school I was teaching at. I wanted to make this video to show people a little...