Jinju Fortress
진주성
I come to 진주 Jinju in the centre of 경상남도 Gyeongsangnam-do. Jinju's a small city, but with some historic buildings from the Joseon Dynasty in 진주성 Jinjuseong (Jinju Fortress). This fortress was attacked twice by the Japanese during their 1590's Invasion of Korea.
진주성 촉석문 Jinjuseong Chokseokmun, The main entrance to JinjuSeong.
Jinju's skyline, looking north from Jinjuseong.
Looking West up the river from Jinjuseong.
I was surprised that even with the 1000원 (₩1000, ~$0.85) entrance fee, many locals were relaxing in the fortress as if it were any typical city park, just sitting in the shade or enjoying a nice walk.
A quiet clearing with memorials.
This large pavilion, 촉성루 Chokseongnu, was first built during the Goryeo period of 918-1392 but was destroyed by fire during the Korean War in the 1950's and was rebuilt in 1960.
Almost all historic structures in Korea, I've observed, have been destroyed in the 19th or 20th centuries and rebuilt during the Republic since the 1950's, mostly in the past two decades. The main culprit has been fire, so all the buildings now also house numerous fire extinquishers. It is a shame Koreans couldn't have protected these treasures before, but it is great that they're taking action now.
Looking south across the river from 촉성루 Chokseongnu Pavilion.
A butterfly enjoying the warm sun on these stone steps.
The north gate into Jinjuseong.
봉산사 Bongsansa Buddist Temple, just north of Jinju's city center.