Changdeokgung Palace is one of Seoul's 5 palaces. We went on an English tour with some of Brian's friends from work. It was built during 1405-1412 (during the ruling of King Taejong of the Joseon Dynasty) and was the center ruling of power from 1618-1896. It was destroyed by the Japanese during the Imjin Invasion in the 1590's and was reconstructed shortly after under the reign of King Gwanghaegun (1608-1623). We took a walk through the palace area: the Kings room, Queen's room, the Royal Library, the Secret Garden, and the area where the servants lived.
The entrance to the palace through Donhwamun Gate. It is the oldest palace gate of those still remaining in Korea.
Denae & Brian by the doors!
Injeongjeon Hall (National Treasure) belowIt was used for official ceremonies and celebrations.
Brian in front of Injeongjeon Hall
The King's Chair
Juniper Tree is about 750 years old.
Denae in front of Buyongji pond. It was created based on the theory that the heaven is round and the earth is rectangular. The rectangular pond = the earth, while the round island in the middle symbolizes heaven.
The intricately painted buildings
The little gargoyles on the roof symbolize a building of importance. There are 9 of them on each rooftop.
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