Manwŏldae

Manwŏldae (Korean: 만월대; Hanja: 滿月臺) was the main palace of the Goryeo dynasty of Korea, located in present-day Kaesong, North Korea. Its name translates to "Full Moon Terrace."

Built beginning in 919 CE during the reign of King Taejo, the founder of Goryeo, Manwŏldae served as the center of Goryeo's political power for nearly 500 years until the capital was moved to Hanyang (present-day Seoul) by the Joseon dynasty. The palace complex was extensive and included numerous halls, gates, pavilions, and gardens, reflecting the prosperity and architectural sophistication of the Goryeo period. It was used for royal audiences, banquets, and state ceremonies.

Much of the palace was destroyed by fire and warfare, particularly during the Mongol invasions of Korea in the 13th century. Despite repeated attempts at reconstruction, it never fully regained its former glory. Today, only remnants of the foundations and scattered artifacts remain.

Ongoing archaeological excavations and research are revealing more information about Manwŏldae's layout, architecture, and significance in Goryeo history. Inter-Korean joint excavation projects have been conducted to further understand the site and promote cultural exchange. These efforts aim to preserve and interpret the remaining vestiges of this important historical landmark. The site is considered a significant symbol of Korean history and a testament to the shared cultural heritage of North and South Korea.