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The
Palace of Chosun Dynasty
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The
palaces in Seoul are Changdok Palace, Kyungbok
Palace, Doksu Palace, and Changkyoung Palace.
The names of these palaces all have their
unique and significant meanings. For example,
"changdok" means that virtue will flourish
all the time. "Kyongbok" means that good fortune
will be spread all over the world. Thus the
name of each palace of the Dynasty wishes
for the prosperity of the nation and the people.
Among these palaces, changdok Palace exemplifies
a distinctive heritage.
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Although
most palaces in Chosun Dynasty are arranged
in a traditional topology, the layout of changdok
Palace is arranged in a natural format to
blend in harmoniously with the surroundings.
A wonderful addition to the palace is the
beautiful Forbidden Garden, the private garden
of the king that was closed to the public.
This garden was also called the Rear Garden
because it is situated behind the royal palace.
The design of the Forbidden Garden preserves
its geographical surroundings such as the
low hills and the valleys minimizing the artifact.
Thus the tress, lakes, and buildings formed
a natural harmonious habit that emphasized
the secretive resting place of the king.
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Main buildings of Changdok-Palace
| Injung-Hall,
King's Hall of Benevolent Governemt, is where
the king conducted the state ceremonies. Important
ceremonies such as the enthronement of the king,
state ceremonies, reception of foreign dignitaries
were held in the courtyard. |
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are rows of Pumgae-suk, or Rank Stones lined
in the front arena of injung Hall. During ceremonies,
officials took their places corresponding to
their ranks as designated by these stones. The
entrance gate leading to this Hall is called
injung-mun, the Gate of Benevolent Government.
The gate emphasizes the importance of benevolence
and illustrates the political philosophy of
Chosun Dynasty. The royal officials entering
the courtyard though the gate reminded themselves
the philosophy of Chosun Dynasty. |
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