In the heart of Seoul, a five minute walk from Seoul station, stands the Namdaemun Gate.

Having the rare opportunity to spend the day alone I decided to take a look at the beautiful gate that I’d been catching glimpses of as my bus pulled into the station.

The 14th century Gate is one of the four remaining gates constructed as part of the old city walls. Surrounded by skyscrapers and TV screens and ringed by busy roads the surrounding area is very different from when the gate was erected in 1398.

Made from wood and billed as the biggest gate ever made in Korea the roof is especially spectacular with finely etched carvings and intricate paint work. It is said to be even more beautiful at night when the roof is lit up.

The middle of the roof some boasts some ancient script, there had been some argument over the origins of this script but is now widely believed they were written by Prince Yangnyeong.

Inside the gate great care had been taken over the painting of brightly coloured dragons and flowers onto a ceiling that most people strolling through the gate would miss.

Named National treasure No.1 and situated near Seoul station and the market that bares it name Namdaemun gate is definitely worth a look. It is not a day out but if you are going to be near the gate take a few minutes to marvel at the ancient architecture and appreciate the care taken over painting the ceiling.

* Posted by j150vsc on 07/01/2007.