신라 왕경 내 발천과 주변의 고지형 환경

Abstract

Balcheon in Gyeongju is a small stream located in the north of the Wolseong moat. Recently, this small stream began to be known as an important location within the Silla Royal district due to its archaeological value. That is, the features of Balcheon have become clear as a standard for demarcating the Royal District and a space of boundaries. Balcheon's original shape can be seen through a comparative review with the old topography, and various aspects can be observed through the civil engineering, architectural technology, and the geographical features of the archaeological spaces performed near the stream. Balcheon would have served as an important reference point when determining the geography of the new Royal District and actively utilizing it in the construction of the city. The stream's geographical features and meanings reveal artificial dimensions and formations through various archaeological findings in the downstream area. It has a topographical meaning that highlights the boundaries of the Royal City in relation to the surrounding remains. The midstream area faithfully carried out its role as the center of the irrigation and drainage system relative to the remains of Guhwang-dong and Wolseong. As the center of the irrigation and drainage system in the surrounding areas and ruins around the Hwangnyongsa Temple, it probably served as a major waterfront within the Royal District. Concerning the upstream region, the discussion depends on which location we consider as the origin of Balcheon. We may consider Mt. Myeonghwalsan Valley Head as the origin of Balcheon. Stretching from here, Balcheon passes near the Hwangnyongsa Temple and splits into the moats of Wolji and Wolseong. Stretching long from the lower to the upper stream, Balcheon's role as an important waterfront site is becoming increasingly clear as a standard terrain that demarcates the urban system of the Gyeongju Royal District rather than being a waterway or stream in a small farmland.