Time Periods
Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Time Periods
Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Location
About
The Goguryeo tombs, located in North Korea, represent a significant archaeological site consisting of 30 tombs from the later Goguryeo kingdom, one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea. Established around 37 BCE, the Goguryeo kingdom was among the strongest ancient Korean kingdoms, with territories in the northern Korean Peninsula and parts of Manchuria. The tombs, adorned with vibrant wall paintings, provide a unique glimpse into the everyday life and mythology of the Goguryeo period. These murals are a rare surviving element of the Goguryeo culture, with only about 90 such painted tombs discovered in China and Korea. The site, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2004, offers insights into the burial practices and social hierarchy of the time, believed to be reserved for royalty. Discoveries at the site also include remnants of a city, featuring defensive structures such as a city wall and a moat.
Gallery
Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Goguryeo tombs
Archaeological Features
Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Defensive Structures
Burial and Funerary Structures
Artistic and Decorative Features
Domestic and Habitation Structures
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history
Plan Your Visit
Details
- Country
- North Korea
- Source
- Wikipedia
More Sites in North Korea
Mausoleum of Tangun
Step pyramid tomb in North Korea.
Kangso Three Tombs
Mausoleums with colorful frescoes in North Korea
Chongam-ri Earthen Castle
Crescent-shaped earthen fortification near Pyongyang.
Anak Tomb No. 3
Goguryeo tomb with murals and epitaph.
Tomb of King Tongmyong
Goguryeo royal tomb with Buddhist murals
Chongbang Fortress
Koguryo-era mountain fortress with extensive walls