**Maximum Width 3.5m · Length 16.5m**
**Discharging Water from Inside the Royal Palace to Outside the Fortress**
The drainage system of a Gaya fortress has been discovered for the first time at the ‘Haman Gayari Ruins’ (pictured). The Haman Gayari Ruins in Gyeongsangnam-do are believed to be the site of the Araya Gaya palace, as detailed in the “Hamjuji” record from 1587, and “Dongguk Yeoji Ji,” compiled in the 17th century. In 2019, the site was recognized for its historical and cultural significance and was designated as a national cultural heritage site.
The royal fortress site found at Gayari Ruins is a “valley land” that is narrow and deeply sunken, enabling natural drainage of surrounding water. Consequently, resolving internal drainage issues was deemed critical. The confirmed drainage facility is a stone structure with a width of 1.0 to 3.5 meters and a remaining length of 16.5 meters. The part passing through the fortress wall is buried underground, allowing a cover stone to be added, while outside the wall, the cover stone disappears, widening into a trumpet shape. The National Institute of Gaya Cultural Heritage, responsible for the excavation, stated that the fortress walls were constructed using the ‘Bueop Construction Method,’ which mixes leaves to increase strength. The discovery of short-necked jars and cauldron-shaped pottery suggests that ceremonial activities took place during the construction of the royal fortress’s foundation.
The institute will hold a presentation on the findings at the Haman excavation site on the 13th and will host an academic seminar on the 20th to share research achievements through four themes, including “Araya Gaya People Pioneering Nature.”