It is believed that Silla was founded by Bak Hyeokgeose in 57 BC. It is known that by the 2nd century a distinct confederation was existing in the south east of Korea. King Naemul (356-402) established a heriditary monarchy. By annexing the eastern half of the kingdom of Gaya state in the 6th century, Silla emerged as a fully grown kingdom.
Buddhism was supported by the state and flourished in Silla. A great number of temples was built, most notably maybe Hwangyongsa, Pulguksa and Sokkuram. Silla attached great importance to the pagoda. Sillas wooden pagodas were later replaced by stone constructions.
King Jinheung (540-576) established a strong military force. In the 7th century Silla allied itself with the Chinese Tang dynasty. In 660, under King Muyeol (654-661), Silla subjugated the kingdom of Baekje. In 668, under King Munmu (King Muyeol's successor), Silla conquered Goguryeo in the north. After this Silla fought for almost a decade to expel the Chinese forces and established a unified kingdom in Korea.
The capital of the Silla kingdom was Gyeongju (慶州). A great number of Silla tombs can still be found in the centre of Gyeongju. Silla tombs took the form of a stone chamber tomb which was surrounded by a soil mound. A great number of remains from the Silla period can be found all over Gyeongju. The historic area around Gyeongju was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2000.
The importance of Buddhism is reflected by many buddhist carvings left behind by Buddhist monks, mostly on Mt. Namsan. These statues and reliefs are carved in stone, which meant that many have been preserved over the centuries.
The Bronze Bell of King Seongdeok the Great attracts a large number of national tourists. The bell produces a distinctive sound, about which there is a legend. The Cheomseongdae astronomical observatory near Gyeongju is remarkable for its time. It is built out of 362 stone bricks which represent the 362 days of the lunar year.
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The Bronze Bell of King Seongdeak the Great |
Cheomseongdae astronomical observatory near Gyeongju |
Buddha relief carved into stone on Mt. Namsannear Gyeongju |