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Attesting that Gyeongju is the ancient capital of Silla with 1,000 years of history and culture, the Gyeongju Historic Areas contain a variety of historic sites and relics. Recognized as places that give visitors a glimpse into Silla’s history and culture based on its diverse heritage, the areas were registered on the UNESCO World Heritage List in November 2000. It is home to 52 cultural properties designated by the Korean government.

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Within the Gyeongju Historic Areas are concentrated outstanding sites and artifacts related to Buddhism and the lifestyle of the Silla people. Based on the characteristics of the sites and artifacts, there are five distinct areas. The Mt. Namsan Belt includes diverse Buddhist artworks; the Wolseong Belt includes the ruins of Wolseong Palace, the Gyerim Woodland, Anapji Pond, and the Cheomseongdae Observatory; the Tumuli Park Belt has three groups of Royal Tombs; the Hwangnyongsa Belt has Bunhwangsa Stone Pagoda and the ruins of Hwangnyongsa Temple; and the Sanseong Fortress Belt consists of defensive fortifications along the east coast and other strategic points, which include the Myeonghwal Mountain Fortress which was the capital’s primary defense facility.

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As can be seen, the Gyeongju Historic Areas are a historical and cultural sphere which has preserved Silla’s Buddhism, life and culture for 1,000 years. It truly represents the heritage of Silla culture.