Cheomseong Observatory, A star-gazing tower

[Teacher]
This structure is called Cheomgseong Observatory, the star-gazing tower.

[Student]
Well, for me, it’s more like a tower. But as a tower, it's neither gorgeous nor tall.
So... I first guessed it might be a storage or chimney. To be honest, I don't understand why it is a famous cultural heritage.

[Teacher]
Judging from its appearance, you may think so. Well, you might be surprised if I tell you this is the oldest astronomical observatory in the East built in the 7th century.

[Student]
An astronomical observatory? Did they really observe stars there? An observatory is supposed to be in the mountain.

[Teacher]
Today, observatories are built in the mountains to stay away from the bright lights of cities. But in Silla, they didn't have to climb up high to watch stars because there was no air pollution or bright lights at that time.

[Student]
I see. Then why were Silla people so interested in astronomy?

[Teacher]
Yes. In ancient agricultural societies, astronomical observation was extremely important.
By observing stars, people were able to predict floods and draughts and astronomical events like solar and lunar eclipses.
And they believed a sudden appearance of a new star or death of a large star were the signs that something important might happen to their kingdom.

[Student]
Oh, so they were keen on studying the movement of stars to foretell the future of their kingdom.

[Teacher]
Exactly. Then why don't we go to see how Silla people observed stars up there?