Wibongsanseong (위봉산성)
This fortress, high in the mountains of Jeolla-bukdo, was constructed during the Joseon Period, with work being completed in 1682. While the double arched main gate is certainly unique, Wibongsanseong has a greater claim to fame. Unlike most fortresses, designed to shelter the local population in case of attack, or provide a stable base of operations to suppress rebellion, this one had another mission. The extensive walls of Wibongsanseong were built to protect the image of the founder of the Yi Dynasty, rulers of Joseon. That’s right, the official portrait of King Taejo and the “spirit tablet” of Yi Han, founder of his clan, were to be enshrined in a small palace and shrine higher up the mountain.
Unfortunately, the walls have only been well preserved near the main roadway over the mountain. That said, you get a sense for how massive this fortress once was.
The arched gates are almost always indicators of Joseon design and construction. This double arched gate, however, is particularly rare.
Above the gate the wall extends up the hill in pretty good shape until it disappears into the dense folliage.
Its difficult to see in this picture, but the condition of the wall—at least this segment—deteriorates rapidly once entering the woods. You can just make out the stones piled within the shadows.
Looking back down onto the West Gate, the grass-covered masonry protecting the gate is an interesting feature as well. You can just make out the extension of the wall at the extreme right of the picture (below the dirt path) and I found myself wondering how the two pieces originally fit together. I can only assume significant damage was done to the original layout in order to lay in the modern roadway.
Looking back up toward the West Gate from across the road. The foliage was such that it was difficult to get everything I wanted into a single picture!
Beyond the fortress, the scenery in the surrounding area was just amazing! Such complete wilderness!!
From the scenic lookout on the LONG ride down the mountain we were able to see the beautiful Wibong Falls.