Cheonmachong

Everyone who complete middle school course in Korea would know Cheonmachong. Many history textbooks introduce Cheonmachong when they explain antique art of Silla. There was no relic related to antique art of Silla before 1973. But Cheonmadojangni(天馬圖障泥, trappings pictured a flying horse) was excavated in a tomb. After that the tomb is named "Cheonmachong". "Cheonma(天馬)" is a word in Korea , means a flying horse like Pegasus and "chong" means tomb in Korea.

An interesting facts about Cheonmachong's past have just come to light lately. Two horn on head is found by infrared camera. And then the picture seems "Girin", not a flying horse. Girin is a imaginary an animal like a unicorn. Many believe Girin is a symbol of good fortune.

Cheonmachong is part of Daereungwon. There are royal tombs, pine grove , pond in Daereungwon. Daereungwon is well gardened. Visitors should feel that they are in a small park.

I recommend visiting there on a weekday. Since there are many group tourists, it's very crowded on weekend.