King Muryeong's Tomb and Songsan-li Burial Mounds
Although most tombs from the Baekje Kingdom were pillaged over the centuries, including six of the seven found here, King Muryeong's tomb miraculously escaped vandals and thieves until it was excavated in 1971. In fact, it was accidentally discovered while pipes were being installed to prevent tombs already excavated (and looted) from flooding. Thankfully the government took precautions, and archaeologists discovered a treasure-trove of Baekje wares in the stone chambers of King Muryeong's resting place. Today, most of the excavated relics, which include some exquisite examples of Baekje artisans' simple yet stunning gold, silver, and stonework, are now in the Gongju National Museum collection or in the Seoul National Museum. Still, the tombs -- which appear from the outside to look like mounds of dirt -- are interesting in their own right. The interiors feature some decorative tiles, teardrop-shaped niches for candles, and even the remnants of Baekje-era murals.
Although most tombs from the Baekje Kingdom were pillaged over the centuries, including six of the seven found here, King Muryeong's tomb miraculously escaped vandals and thieves until it was excavated in 1971. In fact, it was accidentally discovered while pipes were being installed to prevent tombs already excavated (and looted) from flooding. Thankfully the government took precautions, and archaeologists discovered a treasure-trove of Baekje wares in the stone chambers of King Muryeong's resting place. Today, most of the excavated relics, which include some exquisite examples of Baekje artisans' simple yet stunning gold, silver, and stonework, are now in the Gongju National Museum collection or in the Seoul National Museum. Still, the tombs -- which appear from the outside to look like mounds of dirt -- are interesting in their own right. The interiors feature some decorative tiles, teardrop-shaped niches for candles, and even the remnants of Baekje-era murals.
Details
Bookstore
Available as paperback
and as e-book.
