FORTRESS NAMHANSANSEONG

This sumptuous fortress was built to house the capital within its walls and to offer refuge to the king in case of emergency. It was therefore built under Silla by King Munmu in 672, but its earthen walls were replaced and greatly enlarged from 1612 onwards by Gwanghaegun, in anticipation of a possible Manchu invasion. Thus, in 1624, King Injo gave the order to rebuild this fortress. The monk Byeogam became the commander of the Buddhist armies and helped in the construction with his troops of monks. It was completed in 1626, but work was continued later, from King Sukjong (1674-1720) to King Sunjo (1800-1834). Listed as a World Heritage Site since 2014, this site is very beautiful, especially in spring and autumn, as it is very wooded and fits the relief perfectly. The fortress is very imposing, with its 9.6 km long and 3 to 7 m high stone wall. The main vestiges that can be admired there are the four gates at the four cardinal points, the castle of Suejangdae, located at the top of Mount Iljang as well as the Janggyeongsa temple which served as a refuge for the monks builders.

Cleveradvice . It is recommended that you come here at night to enjoy the magical view of Seoul from the fortress. In addition, restaurants are located in the heart of the fortress, which makes it easy for us to enjoy the place all day long.