Introduction
Gongju was the capital of the ancient Baekje Kingdom from A.D. 475 to 539, when the capital was moved to farther south, to Buyeo, to stay out of the reach of the Shilla Kingdom, which was gradually snatching up territory (the Shillas eventually unified the peninsula in the 7th century). Although many remains from this ancient civilization -- and remains from Paleolithic settlements, dating back 20,000 to 30,000 years -- are present here, the main attraction of this sleepy little city is the Gongju National Museum.
Two major mountain ranges (Charyeongsan and Gyeryeongsan) are located near the city, and the Geumgang (Geum River) runs through Gongju from east to west. Since Charyeongsan blocks the northern winds in the winter, the city is a bit warmer than those to its north.
Every year in October the Baekje Cultural Festival is held either here or in Buyeo. One of the three best festivals in the country, there are about 100 events held throughout the area, including ceremonies...
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Gongju National Museum
Founded in 1935, this museum focuses on relics excavated from the tomb of the Baejke King Muryeong, who died in A.D. 529. These artifacts include...
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- Museums
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Seonggoksa (Seonggok Temple)
The construction for this temple began in 1983 and didn't finish until 1995. While the structures aren't architectural wonders, the draw is the...
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Magoksa (Magok Temple)
Founded by Monk Jajangyulsa in A.D. 640, this lovely temple offers an excellent example of local Buddhist architecture -- happily, it was not damaged...
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