The oldest astronomical observatory in Asia, Cheomseongdae Observatory is an ancient Korean star-gazing tower and designated National Treasure. It was built in the 7th century in the Kingdom of Silla to observe not only the stars but also forecast the weather.

Admire the cylindrical stone architecture of the Cheomseongdae Observatory, which stands just over nine metres in height and comprises 362 granite blocks believed by some to represent the days of the lunar year. It features a square entrance around four metres from the base, with room for a ladder that would allow astronomers to climb in.

Discover how astronomy was conducted hundreds of years ago, with findings often reported to the king’s court to make governing decisions based on celestial activities. Learn how astronomers used the Cheomseongdae Observatory to predict eclipses and chart comet trajectories, with its design also believed to hold symbolism relating to the signs of the zodiac.

Getting there

The Cheomseongdae Observatory is around five minutes by bus from the centre of Gyeongju, with trains making the two-hour journey from the centre of Seoul. Gimhae International Airport is around 1.5 hours’ drive from the observatory.