MODERN CULTURAL ALLEY
IN DAEGU
Modern Cultural Alley offers a captivating journey through Daegu's streets, allowing visitors to trace the imprints of history.
A Journey Through Modernity and Memories
Daegu is a city where the echoes of history linger in every corner, allowing visitors to embark on a nostalgic journey through time. Just a century ago, in the 1900s-1910s, Daegu's modernization marked the beginning of a new culture and history, and its distinctive character from that era still endures. Join us on a voyage to explore this facet of modern times.
Modern Cultural Alley: A Window into Daegu's Modern History
Modern Cultural Alley offers a captivating journey through Daegu's streets, allowing visitors to trace the imprints of history. During the early 1900s, both before and after the Korean War, Korea faced tumultuous times and endured significant hardships. Daegu, although not untouched by these challenges, suffered less damage than many other cities during the war. Furthermore, the buildings and alleys constructed during the modern era have remained remarkably intact thanks to the absence of artificial development within the borders of Daegu Walled Town.
In this context, the legacy of modern culture thrives in the heart of Daegu, particularly in Jung-gu. Notably, the Modern Cultural Alley stands out as a vibrant hub for modern cultural exploration, offering an array of engaging experiences that seamlessly blend with historical spaces. It has become the focal point for immersive journeys into Daegu's modern cultural landscape.
Daegu's Modern Legacy: Cheongna Hill and Gyesan Catholic Church
The journey through the Modern Cultural Alley commences atop Cheongna Hill, a green knoll adorned with ivy, its name an apt combination of the words "cheong" (green) and "la" (ivy), and a reference that resonates in the lyrics of the song "Recalling a Dear One."
Nestled upon this hill are three red brick houses, each more than a century old, bearing the imprint of its modern cultural heritage. These houses are named after the American missionaries who once called them home: Switzer (the missions museum), Chamness (the medical museum), and Blair (the museum of education and history).
Venturing onward, you'll ascend the Stairs of March 1st Independence Movement Road, a staircase boasting 90 steps that students once trod on their way to gatherings for the independence movement. Your journey will lead you to Gyesan Catholic Church, widely regarded as the centerpiece of the Modern Cultural Alley.
Erected in 1902, the church stands proudly with its graceful exterior marked by two red brick spires. This Romanesque masterpiece, influenced by Gothic architecture, is the third Western-style building of its kind in Korea, the first two being Seoul and Pyongyang. It holds the distinction of being designated as Historic Site No. 290 and has also served as a cinematic backdrop for movies such as The Priests and The Himalayas.
A Journey of 100 Years
Gyesan Yega: Modern Culture Experience Center serves as a guide for visitors exploring the Historic House of Yi Sanghwa and the Historic House of Seo Sangdon, pivotal hubs within the alley.
The former Jeil Church building, now transformed into a history museum, stands as a striking example of Gothic architecture with its distinctive bell tower. It played a pivotal role as the base where Christian missionaries, pioneers in the Gyeongsangbuk-do region, advanced modern medical care and education.
As you traverse the alley, you'll encounter a tapestry of its unique characteristics, including a road of mulberries, planted by naturalized Ming Dynasty general Dusachung, the 400-year-old Yangnyeongsi Museum of Oriental Medicine, and the Great Yeongnam Road frequented by scholars on their way to and from the gwageo (national civil service examinations). The journey will take you through Jongno, the former downtown of Daegu, leading you to Jingolmok Alley, whose name carries the essence of the Daegu dialect. Walking through the Modern Cultural Alley imbued with a century's worth of history, you'll witness vivid traces of its historical culture spanning the modern era to the present day.
Address│56 Dalseong-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu
Way to go│4-minute walk from Exit 9 of Cheongna Hill Station, Daegu Subway Line 2
NEARBY TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
Lilac Garden 1956
This charming hanok-style café is nestled in the birthplace of poet Yi Sanghwa. Dating back to 1956, this is a shining example of urban renewal. There is a 200-year-old lilac tree that graces the air with enchanting scents in spring.
Mido Tea House
Located next to Parking Lot 1 of the Hanok Village, this café overlooks the entire village. The interior design was inspired by the sarangchae, main quarters of a hanok, and the terrace on the 3rd floor offers captivating views of the tiled roofs.
Radio Days
Situated near the Modern Cultural Alley, this café sits in Daegu’s only surviving 100-year-old Japanese wooden building. It stands as a testament to urban renewal efforts in Daegu. Inside, you’ll find a space with tatami flooring, offering visitors a delightful taste of Japan.
St. Geundae Bakery
As the main branch of Daegu’s renowned bakery with a proud 30-year history, this establishment near Jingolmok Alley beckons to bread lovers. The sweet red bean bun and sweet red bean milk stand out as the bakery’s cherished signature treats.
C’est La Vie
For those yearning to step into a nostalgic music café, this retro gem is situated in the Modern Cultural Alley. This cultural complex exudes a welcoming ambiance, complete with DJ booths and acoustic guitars. The café served as a filming location for the Korean drama Love Rain.
Daegu Modern History Museum
Constructed in 1932, this building was formerly a bank. Inside, visitors are treated to a rich tapestry of exhibits, including a showcase of Korea’s very first city bus and a deep dive into the realms of education and culture that shaped modern-day Daegu.
TIP
Daegu Jung-gu Alley Tours
Guided tours of the Modern Cultural Alley are available in English, Japanese and Chinese, and reservations must be made at the Jung-gu Tourism website. Those who prefer a more flexible experience can download use the Daegu Jung-gu Tour mobile app.
©Korea Tourism Organization
There are no registered comments.
Please write the first comment!