Things to see and do Ganghwado 강화도

It is said that this temple was built by a queen of Silla (Seondeok) in 635. Close to a juniper tree 6 times a century old, you can explore Seokgulamja, a small Buddhist temple inside a cave. Back outside, we admire the estate's flagship attraction: the 10-metre high bas-relief on which is engraved a representation of the deity of compassion Gwanse-eum. The climb is quite steep and steep but it is worth it because in addition to the cultural aspect, this place offers visitors a magnificent view.

During the Goryo Dynasty, this temple was called Jinjongsa and was used as a shrine in honor of the ancestors. Built by the Buddhist monk evangelist Ado, it is located within the Samnangseong fortress. Important architectural works such as the Daeungbojeon Hall with its delicate sculptures can be seen here. On its walls you can read the names of the soldiers who fought against the French naval troops. Other historical treasures are also to be discovered, such as the Beonjong bell.

During the Goryo Dynasty (918-1392), this fortress was used in a defensive role, particularly due to its strategic position right on the Ganghwa Strait. The battery, which housed 8 guns, was built in 1679 and completely rebuilt in 1977. We can see a dragon-shaped battery (Yongdudondae) advancing on the water, very elegant; a fortified gate (Anhae-ru, 1745) and also the rest of the artillery. The French landed there and invaded in 1866, abandoning a few cannons.

It is the place where the people of Goryo resisted the Mongol invasion of 1231 for 39 years. King Gojong moved his capital there because of the strategic advantages the site had. He felt safe there. But four centuries later, in 1637, the palace was lost following a Manchu invasion. Nowadays, the only buildings that can be seen are the Dongheon and Ibangcheong offices, which belonged to local officials.