Gwanmunseong Fortress

Basic information

Designation

Historic Site No.48

Category

Sites & Pagodas

Era

통일신라 성덕왕

Designated year

1963

Location

경주시, 경상북도— 경북 경주시 외동읍 산업로 1739-6, 울산 북구 달천동,중산동,천곡동및 범서면 (모화리)

Coordinates

35.662851, 129.328831

This fortress was built in 722, the 21st year of the reign of King Seongdeok, to protect the Silla capital of Gyeongju from enemies coming from the southeast. Formerly called Mobeolgunseong or Mobeolgwanmun, it was renamed Gwanmunseong during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). This fortress and the Bukhyeongsanseong Fortress, built in 673, contributed to the defense of the east side. The total length is about 12km, which is why the local people call it Mallijangseong meaning “10,000 ri-long Wall.” ri is a traditional unit of measurement. Within the fortress, the sites of the gate, buildings, and warehouses remain. The fortress is composed of 40-50cm long stones piled in the running bond method of wall construction, i.e., wider at the base and narrowing gradually to reach a height of 4-5m. Gwanmunseong is different from other fortresses in Gyeongju in terms of construction, connecting mountains.

Location