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Korea boasts of historic sites, forts, palaces, temples, national parks, valleys,
waterfalls, beaches, lakes, hot springs and cultural villages. Forts, palaces
and castles are huge draws for tourists. Castles and fortresses embody the turbulent
history of Korea. The historical richness of Korea brings in travelers from far
and wide. The Korean countryside is punctuated by several castles and fortresses,
most of which are in ruins now. The existing ones are found in Seoul, the chief
gateway to the Korean peninsula. Korea has suffered almost 900 invasions. The
fortresses were constructed to protect the people against foreign invasions. The
first fortifications were made of mud and timber in 2B.C. With technological advancement,
modern techniques were used in the building of castles and fortresses. Gongsanseong
Fortress in South Korea embodies historical and cultural richness and is a
fine example of a mountain castle of the Baekje period (234-678) located in Gongju-si.
Features of Gongsanseong Fortress in South Korea:
- You can start exploring this 2.5 kilometers castle
from the parking area. Move along the west gate and walk past the cement road.
- You can also tour the castle from the left side at
the beginning of the cement road and take quiet trails atop the castle which
is known as the Sanseong road.
- The cement road has been planned for your utmost
convenience.
- Sanseong road takes a winding turn and is narrower.
But it is ideally built along the Geumgang riverside.
- Gongbukru is the first major attraction you come
across in front of the Sanseong village.
- From Gongbukru, you move along the Sanseong road
which leads to the Yeongeunsa, a small temple constructed during the time of
King Se-Jo's.
- Manharu and Yeonji are major attractions in front
of the temple. This is the most magnificent place in Gongsan castle. This place
offers a spectacular view of the the Geumgang riverside.
- The Imryugak pavilion is the largest in the Gongsan
castle. You can catch amazing sights of Geumgang River from this place.
How to reach Gongsanseong Fortress in South Korea:
Board a bus from Gongju city to reach Gongseonseong Fortress. Regular buses
ply between Gongju city and Gongseonseong Fortress.
Fast Facts of Gongsanseong Fortress in South Korea:
Address: Ongnyong-dong District/ Geumseong-dong / Sanseong-dong, Gongju-si,
Chungcheongnam-do
Telephone Number (Administration office): (041)856-0333(Kor)
Gongju City Hall Culture and Tourism Department: (041-853-0101) (Kor)
Admission Fee: Yes
Special Features: Parking facility available
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