Gyeonghoeru (경회루) (Seoul)

 scenic lookout, pavilion, listed building / architectural heritage

Gyeonghoeru, or Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, is a hall used to hold important and special state banquets during the Joseon Dynasty. It is an important national landmark.

The present building was constructed in 1867 on an island of an artificial, rectangular lake that is 128m/420ft wide and 113m/370ft across.

Constructed mainly of wood and stone, Gyeonghoeru is a wooden structure setting on top of 48 massive stone pillars, with a wooden stairs connecting the second floor to the first floor.

The outer perimeters of Gyeonghoeru are supported by square pillars while the inner columns are cylindrical. Three stone bridges connect the building to the palace grounds, and corners of the balustrades around the island are decorated with sculptures of the twelve Zodiac animals.

Gyeonghoeru is depicted on the 10,000 won Korean banknotes (1983-2002 Series).

Gyeonghoeru is National Treasure #224.