Gyeongbokgung is the main royal palace of the Joseph dynasty. The palace was built in 1395 by king Taejo and served as home and seat of government to the royal family. The complex is 40 hectares and housed hundreds of structures. Today it stands as a cultural showcase of Korea and houses the Palace museum and National folk museum. The main gate welcomes visitors with traditionally dressed guards. The courts are adorned by many stone mythological creatures. The Korean architecture is magnificently ornate and the detailing especially of the roof is breadth taking. Watching the changing of guards is popular among tourists. A place worth visiting if you are in Seoul.
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Gwanghwamum Main Gate |
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Me and the Guard! |
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Colorful guards |
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Roof eave details |
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Ceiling painting |
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Heungnyemum Gate |
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The Throne |
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Stone parapet details |
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Throne hall |
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Sujeongjeon |
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The Gardens |