Banghwasuryu Pavilion, Suwon

Basic information

Designation

Treasure No.1709

Category

Architecture

Era

조선시대

Designated year

2011

Location

수원시, 경기도— 경기 수원시 팔달구 매향동 151번지

Coordinates

37.287563, 127.018119

Banghwasuryujeong, the northeast watchtower of Hwaseong Fortress, was constructed in 1794 (the 18th year of the reign of King Jeongjo during the Joseon Dynasty). Although a tactical building created primarily for defense purposes, Banghwasuryujeong incorporates some features of a garden pavilion and is built using a combination of materials, including stone, wood and bricks. The name “Banghwasuryu” was inspired by a verse by the Song-dynasty poet Cheng Mingda, which means “Around the noon time, with white clouds in the sky and light breezes in the air, walking along a willow-lined brook in search of flowers.” The calligraphy inside the frame is by Jo Yun-hyeong (1725-1799). The building, with an L-shaped plan, has two sections, on the north and east sides, that jut out like a bay window, to afford a more sweeping view of the surroundings. The watchtower was renovated in 1848 (the 14th year of King Heonjong’s reign) and was repaired several times during the second half of the 20th century. Banghwasuryujeong greatly showcases the architectural characteristics of Joseon pavilion-watchtowers, always in harmony with the surrounding natural environment, while satisfying the functional demand as a military facility for surveillance and command. Its original plan and the peculiar design of its roof add further interest to this gem of 18th-century Joseon architecture.

Location