Namhansanseong (Namhan Mountain Fortress): Part 6

I learned that it was completed in 1624. But then what surprised me the most was the fact that 5-km-long fortress was initially built even during the Three Kingdom Period! That means around 57 B.C. Oh.... 

Since I am not into historical numbers or any dates to deal with, I might as well go and look around what this South Gate was all about. First, I noticed at the gate itself. I wonder if that was the original plate used from the beginning. But, I doubted it since it looked like it was made of iron. 

Enough with any doubts, the mere fact that I could just admire its simple beauty was more than what I could ask for. Once again, I did not expect anything prior to go on a hike to reach this gate. 

An afternoon well-spent! 

The South main gate. One of the gates at Namhansanseong or Namhan Fortress. Histories recorded lots of events like the Manchu invasion, the refuge by the royal family, even as a stronghold of resistance during Japanese occupation. 

The height of the fortress perimeter ranges from 3 to 7 meters, but thanks to its steep slopes surrounding them had proven to be one of the key factors in keeping these gates intact. 

My last photo of the South Gate taken in illustration mode. 

Bye, Namhansanseong!

Namhansanseong (Namhan Mountain Fortress): Part 5

Finally I could see the fortress. Yes, one of the fortress that I wanted to see. 

As I reached the end of the trail, finally a glimpse of the fortress was visible. 

This 17th Century South Gate is dubbed to be the biggest one among four other gates in Namhansanseong. 

But, is it really the biggest? Well... 

That's not the point. What I cherished most was the fact that I managed to hike to reach this Gate. Could not believe it myself. I was still fasting and I felt like I forced myself. No water. I was almost dehydrated. 

but..the sheer feeling of joy and triumph set in. 

An automatic mode made it possible for me to 'capture' the moment of me being there. 

I learned that this Gate existed even before King Injo (Joseon Dynasty) built the fortress in 1624. I did not know how to understand it, but..that's exactly what it's said on the placate. 

Anyway..one more picture before getting myself closer to cross the fortress and then..going back again, I mean..climbing down the mountain. Oh..no...I still got a long way before going back to the city. 

One more historical fact: this fortress was used by the royal family to flee themselves from the Manchu invasion in 1636. 

The blue sky over one of the trees: it was a good thing that it was not raining, otherwise I'd got to cancel this 'spontaneous' hiking feat.