Stories of Korea’s National Treasures 31
Photo Credit: Cultural Heritage Administration of Korea
Cheomseongdae Observatory
(Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do)
🏯 1. The Oldest Observatory in the East
Rising quietly over the plains of Gyeongju stands Cheomseongdae, the oldest surviving astronomical observatory in Asia and one of the most iconic landmarks of ancient Korea.
Built during the reign of Queen Seondeok (r. 632–647 CE), this elegant stone tower reflects the advanced scientific knowledge and philosophical vision of the Silla Kingdom.
Its name, Cheomseongdae (瞻星臺), means “Tower for Observing the Stars,” a fitting title for a structure that united science, faith, and aesthetics into a single graceful form.
🪨 2. Structure and Symbolism
Cheomseongdae stands 9.17 meters tall, composed of 362 granite blocks, which many scholars believe correspond to the days of the lunar year.
The base is square, representing the earth, while the circular body above symbolizes the heavens — together expressing the ancient East Asian view of the universe as a harmony between sky and earth.
A small square window at the midpoint divides the tower into two equal halves — an ingenious architectural feature that also mirrors the balance between yin and yang. Through this window, ancient astronomers observed celestial movements, tracking stars, planets, and seasonal changes.
The simplicity of the structure hides a deep cosmological symbolism:
each stone and curve embodies the Silla people’s search for order, balance, and enlightenment.
🌄 3. The Light of Silla Science
Cheomseongdae stands as evidence that scientific curiosity flourished alongside spiritual devotion in the Silla Kingdom.
Queen Seondeok’s court valued astronomy not merely for practical agriculture or navigation, but as a reflection of cosmic harmony and royal virtue.
By studying the stars, they sought to understand not only nature’s cycles, but also the moral rhythm of human life.
In this way, Cheomseongdae became more than an observatory — it was a stone prayer toward the heavens, uniting knowledge and faith beneath the same sky.
🌿 4. Preservation and Legacy
For nearly 1,400 years, Cheomseongdae has endured storms, wars, and time itself, yet it still stands tall and graceful. Its form — simple, elegant, and profound — continues to inspire architects, scientists, and poets alike.
Designated National Treasure No. 31, Cheomseongdae is also listed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site: Gyeongju Historic Areas.
Today, it remains a beloved symbol of Korea’s scientific heritage and the intellectual brilliance of Queen Seondeok’s reign.
As night falls over Gyeongju, the tower seems to gaze once more at the stars —
reminding us that wisdom begins with wonder.
💬 5. A Warm Reflection
“Cheomseongdae does not reach for the stars — it listens to them.
Its stones teach us that true wisdom lies not in height,
but in harmony with the universe.”
📌 Notice
The National Treasure number indicates the order of designation, not a ranking of value.
For more information, please visit the 👉National Heritage Portal