Gongneung, Royal tomb in Samneung complex, Paju, South Korea.
Gongneung is a royal burial site in Paju containing carved stone structures and manicured grounds that form part of a larger complex with two additional royal tombs. The grounds feature typical elements of traditional Korean tomb architecture with carefully crafted stonework and landscaping.
The tomb was built in 1462 and holds the remains of Queen Jangsun, who died in childbirth before becoming a reigning queen consort. This circumstance led to her being granted the title of queen after her death.
The burial grounds reflect Joseon Dynasty protocols through their stone carvings and architectural details visible to visitors. The site shows how royal families organized their resting places according to specific customs of the period.
The site is open to visitors on several days each week, with hours varying by season. Guests should expect unpaved paths and gentle slopes, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Queen Jangsun and her sister Queen Gonghye, buried in the nearby Sulleung tomb, are the only sibling pair to both receive queen titles during the Joseon Dynasty. This rare exception in royal history makes the pair particularly noteworthy.
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