Royal Tombs
Hokkaido Region
The Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009, consist of 40 tombs of the House of Yi, Korea's ruling dynasty from 1392 to 1910. These tombs are distributed across 18 locations on the Korean Peninsula and serve to honor the ancestors and assert royal authority. The tomb complexes are architecturally and culturally significant, reflecting Confucian principles and Korean geomancy known as pungsu. Each tomb is composed of distinct areas: the living space near the Hongsalmun gate, the transitional sacred space with shrines like Jeongjagak, and the burial grounds featuring grave mounds protected by stone walls and statues such as the tiger guardian Seokho and the sheep figure Seogyang. The tombs include various symbolic stone structures like Mangjuseok pillars, Muninseok scholar statues, and Jangmyeongdeung lanterns. Burial types vary by rank, with kings and queens interred in reung-type tombs, crown princes in won-type, and other royals in myo-type tombs. Locations were carefully selected based on geomantic principles and Confucian rites to harmonize with the natural environment and honor traditional Korean burial customs. The site offers a profound insight into Korea's royal history, spiritual beliefs, and architectural artistry.
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Consiglio: Visitors should plan to visit during spring or autumn when the weather is mild and the surrounding nature is most vibrant. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance if available and check opening hours as they may vary by location. Guided tours provide deeper understanding of the cultural and historical significance. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. Respectful behavior is essential as these are sacred sites.
Fatti interessanti
- •The Royal Tombs include 40 reung-type tombs for kings and queens and 13 won-type tombs for crown princes and their wives.
- •The tomb complexes feature guardian statues such as the tiger deity Seokho and the sheep statue Seogyang, symbolizing protection and prayers for the deceased.
- •The Jeongjagak pavilion, shaped like the hanja character 丁, is where memorial services are held.
- •The tombs follow geomantic principles called pungsu, the Korean form of feng shui, to select auspicious locations.
- •Only the lower path, Eodo (The Path of the King), is accessible to visitors, while the higher Sindo (The Path of the Gods) is reserved for spirits.
Storia
The Royal Tombs were constructed throughout the Joseon Dynasty, which lasted from 1392 to 1910, reflecting the dynasty's Confucian values and royal authority.
The tombs were built according to Chinese Confucian texts and Korean geomantic traditions, ensuring harmony with the environment.
Over centuries, the tombs were maintained and expanded, preserving the burial customs and architectural styles.
In 2009, the site was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting its historical and cultural importance.
Guida del luogo
Jeongjagak Shrine
A pavilion shaped like the hanja character 丁 where memorial services for the deceased royals are conducted, serving as a spiritual meeting point between the living and the dead.
Hongsalmun Gate
The iconic gate with two red cylindrical pillars marking the entrance to the sacred tomb area, symbolizing the boundary between the living and the spiritual realm.
Seokho and Seogyang Statues
Stone statues of a tiger (Seokho) serving as the guardian of the grave mound and a sheep (Seogyang) that wards off evil spirits and prays for the departed souls.
Bongbun (Grave Mound)
The burial mound where the body of the king or queen lies, protected by stone walls called Gokjang and surrounded by various symbolic stone structures.
Chamdo Paths
Two stone-covered paths leading to Jeongjagak: Sindo (The Path of the Gods) reserved for spirits, and Eodo (The Path of the King) used by visitors, representing the connection between the earthly and holy realms.
Contatto
Telefono: 07 7961 6896