Taean's Largest Naval Fortress Designated as Historic Site

Anheungjin Fortress Designated as Historic Site: "A Defensive Barrier for Hanyang and a Key Maritime Hub"

Anheungjinseong

Anheungjin Fortress in Taean, Chungnam, has been elevated to the status of a historic site.

The Cultural Heritage Administration announced on the 2nd that this naval fortress (水軍鎭城, a fortress built by the navy along the coastal cliffs) ? the largest of its kind in Taean ? has been designated as Historic Site No. 560 by the national government. Anheungjin Fortress was constructed along the valley from the foothills to the ridge at the summit. The total length is 1,714 meters. The construction period is estimated to be the 11th year of King Seonjo’s reign (1583). The Cultural Heritage Administration explained, “Inscribed stones (刻字石, stones engraved with information related to the construction) and parapets (女墻, structures installed to protect against enemy arrows or bullets) remain, allowing us to understand the construction and changes of the fortress walls.”

Anheungjinseong East to South Gate Section of Fortress Wall

Due to its geographical characteristics, Anheungjin Fortress was used as a key point on the transport route (waterway). Its original purpose was the stable defense of Hanyang and Ganghwado Island. The Cultural Heritage Administration stated, “In the 3rd year of King Gojong’s reign (1866), it was promoted to Anheung Defense Camp (a military camp led by a second-rank commander) and served the role and function of the Chungcheong Naval Headquarters’ camp in the late 18th century.” They added, “Through historical records such as the Annals of the Joseon Dynasty, Daedongjiji, and Bibyeonsa Deungnok, the year of construction, background, and completion period can be clearly confirmed. It is a coastal defense site on the west coast with military facilities.” They also noted, “Among the nationwide Tongjeyeong, Bangoyeong, Suyeong, and naval fortresses, it is the best preserved, making its conservation value very high.”

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