The Ancient Tombs in Marisan Mountain, Haman were initially managed as two separate areas based on the administrative divisions in 1964 - the Ancient Tombs in Dohang-ri (Historic Site No. 84) and the Ancient Tombs in Malsan-ri (Historic Site No. 85). However, based on excavation results, it was confirmed that they are tombs from the same era and of the same nature, making them parts of a single tomb complex. Because of this reason, they were integrated and re-designated as Historic Site No. 515 on July 28, 2011. The designated area covers 562 parcels of land, including Dohang-ri 484, with a total size of 525,221 ㎡, making it one of the largest Gaya-period tomb site in Korea.

As of October 2013, about 78% of the land is state-owned, while 22% is privately owned, with Haman County designated as the managing authority by the Cultural Heritage Administration. Haman County manages a total of 37 Gaya-era burial mounds that have been numbered. The numbering starts with Tomb No. 1 at the northernmost point and continues southward along the main ridge and the branch ridges, with Tomb No. 37 being the southernmost. However, a detailed surface survey conducted by the Museum of Changwon National University in 1991 identified a total of 113 burial mounds, including the previously known 37. Based on excavation findings, it is estimated that there may be over 1,000 Gaya-era tombs in the area, considering those whose original shapes have been lost.

The Ancient Tombs in Marisan Mountain were primarily constructed during the height of Ara Gaya's power in the late 5th to early 6th centuries. The larger tombs are located along the main ridge and the gentle slopes of the branch ridges, while medium-sized and smaller tombs are situated along the slopes. In the northern part of Marisan Mountain, there is a dense distribution of wooden coffin and chamber tombs from the Anyaguk period (predecessor to Ara Gaya) of the Samhan era. Therefore, the Ancient Tombs in Marisan Mountain have been constructed over 550 years from around the turn of the Common Era to the fall of Ara Gaya.

A total of 7,961 artifacts have been excavated from the Ancient Tombs in Marisan Mountain, including 2,010 pieces of pottery, 2,479 iron items, 3,381 ornaments, and 91 miscellaneous items. These artifacts reflect the rich culture of Ara Gaya, which formed and developed independently, and also show Ara Gaya’s relations with surrounding countries through trade, conflict, and conquest, making the site of great academic significance.

The pottery unearthed from the tombs includes tall cups with a cylindrical base, flame-patterned pedestal dishes, handled cups, patterned lids, various jars and bowl stands, all characteristic of the unique Ara Gaya style from the 4th to 5th centuries. Reflecting its reputation as the "Kingdom of Iron," Ara Gaya also produced highly sophisticated iron artifacts, including large ring swords, iron spears, arrowheads, helmets, plate armor, scale armor, equestrian equipment such as horse armor, bits and saddles and, mineulsoe (an accessory attached to poles or weapons to drop mounted enemies) with bird-patterned ornaments. Notably, iron ingots, found only in large tombs, demonstrate Ara Gaya's development into an ancient state based on abundant iron resources.

Some horse strap pendants and horse fitting for crossbelts were adorned with gold and silver, offering a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the ruling class. Also, flame-patterned pottery, symbolizing Ara Gaya, suggests its external relations and high cultural level.

Haman Musem is located at the third and fourth branch ridges of Marisan Mountain. As a major cultural facility of Haman County, the museum harmonizes well with the landscape where the ancient tombs are situated at. Through exhibitions on Ara Gaya's history and culture, the museum promotes the value of the Ancient Tombs in Marisan Mountain.

(Source: Haman Museum 10th Anniversary Special Exhibition Catalog)

Location

• 583-2, Dohang-ri, Gaya-eup, Haman-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do, Republic of Korea