An Integrated Archaeoastronomical and Landscape-Archaeological Study on the Linear Axis and Solstitial Orientation of the Mujang-myeon Dolmens, Gochang
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5865/IJKCT.2026.16.2.125Keywords:
Dolmen, Archaeoastronomy, Landscape Archaeology, Orientation, Solstitial Alignment, Horizon Analysis, ViewshedAbstract
This study tests the directional layout of dolmens in Mujang-myeon (Gochang, Korea) within an integrated archaeoastronomy-landscape archaeology framework. Using field records with DEM-derived horizon profiles and viewsheds, and evaluating axial data via circular statistics, we examine three scales: a regional line (Gyoheung-Songhyeon-Wonchon), the Gyoheung cluster (Ga-Na-Da), and monument long-axes. Results show a southeast regional axis near 130° consistent with the winter-solstice sunrise, an intra-cluster alignment near 160°, and frequent clustering on 60/120/240/300° and 95-100/275-280°. Several monuments allocate front/side/rear faces toward winter sunset, winter sunrise/summer sunset, and stellar viewing. We infer a dual frame—true north/Ursa Major and seasonal solar markers—embedded in local peaks and saddles, and recommend protecting solstitial sightlines.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Younghee Noh

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