Suwon Fortress.

For months, we have wanted to visit the Hwaseong ("brilliant") Fortress in Suwon, and we finally took the opportunity.  Completed in 1796, the fortress is really a 3.5 mile long wall that encloses the central part of Suwon city, the provincial capital.  There are four main "gates" or guard structures, as is standard in much of Korea.  Seoul city has four gates as well and the Suwon gates are structured after Seoul's.  If you're feeling ambitious (as we were), you can walk the entire wall circle.  It is very hilly, making it a fairly challenging excursion.

Looking out over the more modern part of Suwon.

Ben was fascinated with the holes in the wall.

I like the contrasting new(er) city behind the old wall.

Pointing out the structure.

The East Gate (I think).

We stumbled across a "Hat Museum."  It was closed, but you can bet we'll be back to visit another day!

The south floodgate.

Hwaseong Fortress was built by King Jeongjo to house and honor the remains of his father, Prince Sado.  The prince was murdered by being locked alive inside a rice chest by his own father, King Yeongjo, because he didn't commit suicide as he was commanded.  So, when we saw this rice chest, we had to see if Ben would fit.  Turns out, he fits!  The Korean family watching us was laughing and making gestures like Ben was a giant.  It was hilarious!

Hwaseong Fortress is a must-see when visiting Korea.  I'm so glad we finally made it!