Gyeongju Part 2

There were many pathways with paper lanterns covering the ceiling or walkway that were decorative and also that had lanterns "for sale" meaning that you could pay a donation whereas your name would be attached, like the picture of a lantern recognizing the donation from someone from Austin, Texas.

 More colorful paper lanterns with the name tag attached recognizing their donation.

It is so fascinating drive along the roads in town and to see off to the side these huge mounds that were the burial sites of different kings and queens from different eras of kingdoms/dynasties. We turned off the main road where the sign directed us. This queen’s tomb was beautiful walking through forests and across streams but we had already stopped at a kings tomb that was not as nicely situated, an we were now in a hurry to get to the church for Dad’s interviews.

I had heard about these tombs/mounds and had wanted to see inside one of them. I don’t know if there are others but Ben and I were able to take the time to walk to this complex where tours could be taken of ancient tombs thought we saw this on our own. It has been so hot outside so it was especially nice to be able to go inside because the slope down leads you to an air conditioned small museum with a few displays. I didn’t take many pictures because we were in a hurry, not knowing how much time we had left before Dad was finished with his interviews.  The first picture is of a wooden saddle that the royal family used. It looked painful for both the rider and the horse.  The next picture is of the grave itself with the crown lying on the ground. The actual burial site was larger than I thought it would be, with enough room to hold many treasures surrounding the queen who had passed away.  The replica of the crown is also on display at the restaurant at the hotel we have stayed at a few times, so I have wanted to see inside this tomb for a while.  A belt was ornately decorated out of gold leaf, I think. It looked intricate and probably heavy with the many sashes off the belt.