GANGHWA COUNTY

Gapgot Dondae Fortress

This outpost was an important fortress during the time of Mongolian invasion from 19th year of king Gojong of Goryeo (1232), to the 11th year of King Wonjong.
This outpost was strengthened in the 22nd year of King Hyojong of Jeoseon dynasty (1644), Gapgotjin base was built in the reign of king Sukjong (1679). In the 3rd year of King Gojong, the French battle ship equipped with 600 armed forces arrived Ganghwa strait and invaded both Mt. Ganghwasan and Mt. Munsusan fortresses.

However, the French forces were defeated by General Yangheonsu in the battle of Samnangseong (Jeongjoksan mountain) fortress. The French attempted to loot away bronze bell, but failed due to heavy weight, so they pillaged some essential books and records of the library in the castle and burnt down the buildings of the Joseon palace. Those cannons of Joseon era are displayed in the outpost.