Donhwamun, Main gate at Changdeokgung Palace, Seoul, South Korea
Donhwamun is the main entrance gate to Changdeokgung Palace in Seoul, built with wood and featuring a traditional curved roof with intricate carved details throughout. The structure serves as the transition point from the public street to the inner palace grounds, showcasing careful craftsmanship in every element.
The gate was built in 1405 during King Taejong's reign as a central entry to the royal palace. It sustained damage during the Japanese occupation in the early 20th century but underwent careful restoration to recover its original form.
The carved details and curved roof follow traditional Joseon Dynasty design principles that communicated royal importance through careful craftsmanship. Walking through this entrance, you experience how architectural choices guided people into the sacred royal space.
You can enter through this gate during the palace's regular opening hours, which typically run from morning through late afternoon. It is easily accessible on foot and serves as the natural starting point for exploring the palace grounds.
Guard-changing ceremonies are performed regularly at this gate following ancient protocols that preserve the royal status of the location. These rituals show how the palace keeps its historical role alive in modern times.
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