Defending From Attack - Jinjuseong Fortress

One smoldering hot afternoon I decided the family shouldn't be wasting our time here by being inside and we needed to do some sightseeing on the way home from church. The Fortress is right in town near church so I thought it would be perfect. I was the only one who thought it would be perfect, if that gives you any idea how our afternoon went...

This is taken right inside the entrance, which is that building above.

 Jinjuseong Fortress boasts the history and culture of Jinju. It was originally constructed in 1079 as a mud castle but was rebuilt in 1379 with stones to be stronger against frequent sea invasions. It sets on top of the hill overlooking the Nam River and present day city of Jinju.

 During the Japanese invasion of Korea in 1592, Korea had a victory at the castle, which was one of three great victories in that war.

 These 30 monuments date from 1392-1910, which were situated in various places within the fortress. They are now gathered here in one place.

Such intricate detail with the writing carved in stone.

Bukjangdae is a little open-walled pavilion that was built for military commanders to issue orders to soldiers stationed between the inner wall and the other wall of the fortress. This was the northern command post that was destroyed by fire during the 1592 Japanese invasions but rebuilt in 1618. Look at all the detail on the inside of the roof.

Also look how we were sweating.

There were 12 gun platforms that were installed within Jinju Fortress and its outer fortification in 1607.

 Nice view the city from up on the hill.

Abe thought he was being funny by posing here. It took me a minute to realize why. Look at the sign on the wall. {insert head shake and eye roll} Boys.

 It always makes me nervous when Eli is at the edge of something high.

 But today, no one fell in the water.

This is Uiam Rock, which means Righteous Rock. A brave young Korean woman named Nongae was  trained in the arts of music, dancing and poetry to act as a "professional companion" for aristocratic men. In 1593 she killed a Japanese military leader by grabbing him tightly and jumping off this cliff into the Namgang River, rumored of using her "professional companion" skills to distract him. She was avenging the deaths of 70,000 soldiers, government officials and civilians. The people named the rock after her 'loyal, patriotic act.'

Near the Uim Rock at the highest point along the cliffs is the Chokseongnu Pavilion. The original structure was built in 1241, but has been rebuilt as it has been destroyed several times by war, most recently during the Korean War.

Like most nugaks, you must take off your shoes before entering.

Not pictured: the  bickering, rude remarks to Mommy, nor the angry stomping away. I almost felt like I was defending attack from hot, angry children, but I made it out to talk about it.

[August 4]