The fact that ancient people observed stars doesn't solely indicate their curiosity but also reflects their grasp of 'astronomy,' the study of celestial changes. Astronomy held significant importance in agricultural societies due to its direct correlation with weather patterns, crucial for farming.

It was intricately intertwined with politics. Believing that royal authority was divinely bestowed, people regarded celestial changes as indicative of human world transformations. For instance, meteors or comets were perceived as ominous omens signalling the imminent demise of someone important.

Hence, interpreting celestial phenomena served as a means to validate political legitimacy for both nobility and the populace. Astronomy remained a closely guarded secret, accessible only to a select few. National calendars were also confidential due to their inclusion of pivotal astronomical occurrences like solar and lunar eclipses. This notion stemmed from the belief in governing the country in alignment with the will and supremacy of heaven.

The prevailing view of Cheomseongdae Observatory suggests it was an astronomical observatory, but its actual function remains controversial. Let's explore the divergent perspectives.

Some researchers argue that during the Silla period, Cheomseongdae was used solely to measure sun-induced shadow lengths and not for astronomical investigations. They contend that its structure, including the square window and the installation of observation instruments like Honcheonui, seems unsuitable. Climbing in and out of the tower daily would have been inconvenient for astronomers. Instead, they posit that people utilized it to understand various solar terms like Chunbun, Chubun Haji, and Dongji, applying this knowledge to agriculture, serving as a sundial hub.

Others perceive Cheomseongdae Observatory as an object or altar for religious purposes. Queen Seondeok, the tower's builder, expressed in her will a desire to be buried in Doricheon after her death. Doricheon symbolizes the sky at the summit of Sumisan Mountain, a sacred place in Buddhism. Advocates of this view assert that Cheomseongdae Observatory 's design mirrors Sumisan, suggesting a religious connotation.

Lastly, some scholars view Cheomseongdae Observatory as a 'space well,' a passage connecting the celestial realm (inhabited by gods) and the earthly world (inhabited by people). The Silla people perceived wells constructed of piled stones on the ground, akin to Cheomseongdae Observatory, as such passages. Given Queen Seondeok's various political challenges during her reign, she might have sought to fortify her authority by establishing a connection to the heavens through Cheomseongdae Observatory.

Having acquainted yourself with these theories, take a moment to observe Cheomseongdae. Envision the Silla people coming and going. Which story resonates the most with you?