Located in Seoul, the capital of the Republic of Korea, Changdeokgung Palace was built during the Joseon Dynasty (1395 – 1910) and has more buildings preserved than any other palace from that period.
The palace is designated as Historical Site No. 122 and covers a total area of 580,000 square meters, although the main palace grounds which do not include the Secret Garden cover an area of 120,000 square meters.
The capital of the Joseon Dynasty was moved from Gaeseong in the north to Hanyang(today’s Seoul) in 1392, but construction of the palace actually began in October of 1404 during the 4th year of the reign of King Taejong.
Construction of the main building Jeongjeon began in February of 1405 and was completed in October of the same year. From then on, the palace was called Changdeokgung Palace or “Palace of Prospering Virtue.” Since the palace was located in the east of the existing palace, Gyeongbokgung Palace, it was often referred to as “East Palace.”
The main structures of Changdeokgung Palace include the gate, Donhwamun Gate, the beautiful granite bridge Geumcheongyo, and Injeongjeon which served for official state functions. Seonjeongjeon was used for affairs of state between the king and his ministers. Daejojeon served as the queen’s guarders as well as the king’s sleeping quarters, and as educational quarters for the princes. The original quarters were destroyed on several occasions, and during the Japanese Occupation the existing quarters became somewhat westernized. The current quarters are a combination of both Korean and western styles.
Palace is the fact that it was built with minimum effect on the natural environment and designed to harmonize with nature as completely as possible. Buildings were designed and constructed to blend easily with the immediate surroundings and even directions were given for careful consideration in planning and building. Space was utilized to provide distinctly different atmospheres throughout the grounds. Also, careful consideration was given to provide continuous yet different views from each site on the grounds.
Sources: Cultural Heritage Administration (http://english.cha.go.kr)
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