Korea / Southeastern Region / Kyongju

The legends of the ancient Shilla Kingdom (57B.C.-935) echo across the years, leaving a legacy of beauty and mystery in the valleys surrounding Kyongju, an ancient capital where kings and queens reigned for almost a millennium. The achievements of the Shilla people and their devotion to Buddha are evident in the stone images carved on cliff walls and the other stone monuments found throughout the area.

Kyongju is Korea's "culture city" and, for anyone truly interested in delving further into Korean antiquities, a visit to the many sites near this ancient capital is essential. The Kyongju National Museum contains some of the country's finest treasures. Gold art treasures, including crowns, pendants and jewelry, were recently discovered and are now on display in the museums of Kyongju and Seoul. A visit to the many ruins will also provide the tourist with some idea of the magnificence of the city's cultural achievements during the Unified Shilla era which dates back roughly 1,000 years.