Mathematical Interpretation of a Thirteen Hundred Year Old Stone Masonry Observatory

Abstract

The present paper discusses various implications suggested by a thirteen hundred year old stone masonry structure, built by Queen Sun-Duk of the Silla Dynasty, regarding astronomy, religion, symbol, mathematics in architectural form and construction. The name of the 9.1 m tall stone tower, Chum-Sung-Dae, implies its use as celestial observatory and it is claimed to be the oldest one existing in Asia. Although there have been some disagreements about its function as an observatory, this claim is generally accepted in the absence of any evidence to the contrary. No matter what the original function was, Chum-Sung-Dae has been unanimously acknowledged as the product of then state-of-the-art technology. What makes Chum-Sung-Dae so unique and particular among coeval buildings in stone masonry is in its elegant, multiple curvatures. Furthermore, the geometry of Chum-Sung-Dae is reported to embody a notable numerical significance. The absence of mortar between stone layers and sides indicates that the load transfer mechanism of the tower is dependent upon the frictional resistance due to gravity. All these features will be discussed, with an emphasis on the mathematical analysis and interpretation.