Aeryeonji Pond has a beautiful name. The term “Aeryeon” literally means “love the lotus flower”. The pond can be found after passing through Buyongji Pond and the Bullomun Gate. Aeryeonjeong Pavilion is a square pavilion standing over the pond.
Aeryeonjeong Pavilion used to stand in the center of the pond but was later moved to the side. It was built at its current location in 1692 by King Sukjong. According to The Chronology of Royal Palaces, both the pond and pavilion got their names from “Aeryeonseol”. A wise man, like the lotus flower, is unfazed by his environment and remains upright no matter what.
Furthermore, Aeryeonjeong Pavilion was built at the current location based on the theory of Yin-Yang and the Five Elements. The presence of water in the area served as a firebreak. The Aeryeonji Pond looks like any other pond from the outside, but it actually conceals a secret device. Water can flow into the pond like a waterfall thanks to the device. This demonstrates that the Aeryeonji Pond is unique among palace gardens.
The Aeryeonji Pond and Aeryeonjeong Pavilion not only offer breathtaking natural beauty but also a touching hidden message. Let us never forget our virtues, no matter where we are.