Myeoncheoneupseong Walled Town

Myeoncheoneupseong Walled Town was constructed in 1439 to defend against pirate invasions and served as the military and administrative center of Myeoncheon until the late Joseon dynasty, although the area was a gateway for trade and a strategically important base for national defense since the Baekje period. The walls were constructed using shaped natural stones; the outer perimeter was built as a stone masonry, while the inner side was filled with stones and covered with earth. Inscribed stones bearing the names of the counties responsible for the construction were also discovered on the western wall. The current circumference of the walls is 1,336 meters, but it is estimated that the total length at the time of construction, including the buttresses and Crescent-shaped Defensive Wall, was approximately 1,564 meters. Gates were located on the east, west, and south sides, with the Nammun Gate featuring an Crescent-shaped Defensive Wall. Restoration work has continued since 2007, restoring the Nammun Gate, Crescent-shaped Defensive Wall, West Wall, Southeast Bastion, part of the East Wall, and the Guesthouse to their former appearance. Inside the fortress, two 1,100-year-old ginkgo trees, designated as Natural Monuments, along with Gunjajeong Pavilion, Goljeongji Pavilion Site, and a retro street, create a harmonious blend. It is a wonderful place to experience the old-world atmosphere while strolling through the village within the fortress, where residents still live. The Myeoncheoneupseong Walled Town Azalea Folk Festival is held every spring.