Cheomseongdae Observatory in Gyeongju

Cheomseongdae Observatory in Gyeongju

Cheomseongdae is an ancient astronomical observatory located in both the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and the Republic of Korea. There are two such structures on the entire Korean Peninsula—one situated in the northwest of Kaesong’s city center, and the other located in the heart of Gyeongju.

The Gyeongju Cheomseongdae was constructed in 634 AD and is the oldest astronomical structure on the Korean Peninsula. It is a cylindrical building with a diameter of 5.17 meters and a height of 9.4 meters, originally built using 362 pieces of granite to represent the days of the year. This observatory utilized a water mirror at its base and light entering through windows to observe astronomical phenomena such as solar eclipses and the movement of stars. It was used to divine auspiciousness or misfortune to guide national decisions and agricultural activities of the people, and has been designated as National Treasure No. 31 of the Republic of Korea.

Gyeongju Chomsongdae

Why you must visit: The oldest astronomical structure on the Korean Peninsula

Continent where the attraction is located: Asia

Country/Region where the attraction is located: South Korea

Province/State where the attraction is located: North Gyeongsang Province

City where the attraction is located: Gyeongju