Changdeokgung Palace

Changdeokgung Palace was established in 1405 by King Taejong, the third monarch of the Joseon Dynasty. It was built as a secondary palace to Gyeongbokgung, but it quickly became the preferred residence of many kings due to its layout that harmonizes beautifully with the surrounding topography. For centuries, it served as the heart of the government and the royal family's daily life, earning the nickname 'East Palace' alongside the nearby Changgyeonggung. During the Japanese invasions in the late 16th century, the palace was completely destroyed by fire. However, it was the first of the major palaces to be reconstructed in 1610, and it functioned as the primary seat of the royal court for approximately 270 years until Gyeongbokgung was finally rebuilt in the late 19th century. This long period of use allowed the palace to retain many original features and a layout that reflects the unique architectural philosophy of the Joseon era. What truly sets Changdeokgung apart is its seamless integration with the natural landscape, particularly seen in the Huwon, or Secret Garden. Unlike the formal, symmetrical designs of other East Asian palaces, Changdeokgung follows the natural contours of the hills and woods. This commitment to preserving the environment while creating a space for governance and relaxation led to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997.