Cheomseongdae Observatory, Gyeongju

An astronomical observatory of Silla located in Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do, known as the oldest surviving astronomical observation facility in the East. Built during the reign of Queen Seondeok by stacking stones one upon another, it is distinguished by its bottle-like shape with gentle curves. It demonstrates the scientific level of the Silla people, who observed the heavens and applied their findings to agriculture and politics. It is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the Gyeongju Historic Areas.