Gyeongju (Korean: 경주시 / 慶州市 Gyeongju-si), formerly known as Seorabeol or Geumseong, is a city in North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea. The ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom, Geumseong, was located here. The character “Gyeong” in Gyeongsang originates from this city. It is now a major tourist city in Korea. Seokguram Grotto, Bulguksa Temple, and the Gyeongju Historic Areas are all listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Bulguksa Temple is the largest Buddhist temple in the Gyeongju area, magnificent and exquisite, designated as Historic Site No. 1 by the Korean government. Other major relics include Seokguram Grotto, the Stone Pagoda at Bunhwangsa Temple, the Stele of King Muyeol of Silla, Cheomseongdae Observatory, and the Daereungwon Tomb Complex. The Gyeongju National Museum displays precious ancient artifacts. Every September, Korea holds the “Silla Cultural Festival” here.