The Historical and Archaeological Characteristics of Yeoju Pasaseong in the Transitional Period from the Middle Ages to the Early Modern Era, Based on Excavated Artifacts

Archaeological investigations at Pasaseong were conducted in ten stages between 1999 and 2024, establishing that the fortress was in operation from the Three Kingdoms period through the Joseon dynasty. Although artifacts attributable to the transitional period between the Middle Ages and the Early Modern era—including ceramics, roof tiles, and metal objects—have been unearthed, a comprehensive analysis of these materials has not yet been undertaken. The present study therefore concentrates on ceramics, which represent the largest proportion of the assemblage, while also examining diagnostic artifacts of other categories in order to elucidate the characteristics and archaeological significance of Yeoju Pasaseong during this period. Among the excavated materials, Goryeo-period celadons and eaves tiles bearing gwi-mokmun (or ilhwi) motifs can generally be dated to the late 11th through the mid-13th century. Joseon-period white porcelains include a limited number of examples produced in the 17th century; however, the majority appear to date prior to the 16th century. A wooden tablet recovered from Reservoir No. 1 within the ‘sa’-site area precinct was found in association with white porcelains inscribed with the character “右,” which are known to have been produced after the mid-16th century. Taken together, the assemblage from Pasaseong appears to reflect two principal phases of production and use: the late 11th to mid-13th century and the mid-16th century. The concentration of materials within these horizons is interpreted as the result of shifting functional roles of Pasaseong across different historical contexts.