1948 - Data Points by Date/Period

The Pocheon Defense Bunker is a significant historical site located at 45, Giji-ri, Sinbuk-myeon, Pocheon-si, built by South Korea in 1948 as tensions between North and South Korea escalated. This bunker is one of four battle positions constructed by the Korean Army to defend against potential invasions by the North. Of these four, only the Pocheon Defense Bunker remains intact, with the other three having been destroyed during the fierce battles of the Korean War. The bunker features a reinforced concrete wall, approximately 35 inches (90 cm) thick, constructed with circular steel bars placed about 8 inches (20 cm) apart. The muzzles in the bunker, varying in size and shape, are designed to be wider inside than outside. This construction highlights the strategic importance of the bunker in the context of war. On June 25, 1950, the bunker was partially damaged during an attack by a North Korean tank, but it has been preserved in good condition by Pocheon-si as a space of national security. It serves as a poignant reminder of the fierce battles fought during the Korean War and stands as a battlefield monument that symbolizes the intense confrontation between South and North Korea after the establishment of their separate governments. The Pocheon Defense Bunker is recognized as the only remaining defense position from the Korean War within South Korea, emphasizing its historical value. It was designated as Registered Cultural Heritage No. 578 on December 20, 2013, for its significance in illustrating both the horrors of war and the importance of national defense.

The Seungilgyo Bridge is a unique structure that embodies the complex history and division of Korea. Its construction began in August 1948 when the area was under North Korean control. The North Koreans completed the basic construction and two piers. However, following the Armistice Agreement, the land was transferred to South Korea, which finished the bridge on December 3, 1958. This transition led to the bridge's distinct architectural features, with the northern and southern halves showing different designs that reflect the varying construction methods and architectural styles of the two Koreas. The Seungilgyo Bridge is more than just an infrastructure project; it symbolizes Korea’s tragic history of division and war. The contrasting designs of the bridge, such as the varying arch sizes, highlight the separation and subsequent cooperation between North and South Korea. Designated as Registered Cultural Property No. 26 on May 31, 2002, the bridge holds significant cultural and historical importance. Its name, Seungilgyo, has two possible origins. One story suggests that 'Seung' was derived from the name of South Korean President Rhee Syngman, and 'il' from North Korean President Kim Il-sung. Another story proposes that the bridge was named in honor of General Park Seung-il, who was killed in the Korean War. Today, the Seungilgyo Bridge serves not only as a historical monument but also as a recreational spot. During the summer, the waters beneath the bridge become a popular area for rafting activities, attracting many visitors who come to appreciate both its historical significance and natural beauty.

Tenuta San Guido stands as a distinguished Italian wine producer nestled in the DOC Bolgheri in Toscana, renowned for its creation of 'Super Tuscan' wines. Notably, it crafts Sassicaia, a Bordeaux-style red wine acclaimed in oenophile circles. The estate also boasts Guidalberto as its second wine and Le Difese as its third. A proud member of the Primum Familiae Vini, Tenuta San Guido has a rich history steeped in winemaking excellence. Established by marchese Mario Incisa della Rocchetta, also a co-owner of the renowned racehorse Ribot, Tenuta San Guido's prominence burgeoned with the creation of Sassicaia. The name Sassicaia, derived from the Italian 'sasso,' meaning 'stone,' was born in 1948 when Incisa della Rocchetta first crafted it using Cabernet Sauvignon vines, initially intended solely for familial consumption. Contrary to a narrative linking its vines to Château Lafite-Rothschild, dismissed by Mario's son Nicolò Incisa della Rocchetta, the vineyard was actually cultivated from cuttings sourced from a friend's estate near Pisa, boasting 50-year-old vines. While Sassicaia was initially a private reserve, it was later commercialized at the behest of Mario's son Nicolò and nephew Piero Antinori, with the 1968 vintage marking its debut in 1971. Its limited initial release sparked significant demand, leading Mario Incisa della Rocchetta to engage the expertise of consulting enologist Giacomo Tachis to refine the wine and expand its production. In a 1978 Decanter tasting of esteemed clarets, the 1972 Sassicaia triumphed, securing first place among 33 wines from 11 countries, a testament to its exceptional quality. Notably, in 1994, Sassicaia was granted its unique DOC (Bolgheri Sassicaia DOC), an exclusive honor for a single-estate wine in Italy, having previously been classified as an IGT (Indicazione geografica tipica) and initially designated as a Vino da tavola. Spanning 75 hectares in Bolgheri, Tenuta San Guido cultivates primarily Cabernet Sauvignon (85%) and Cabernet Franc (15%) grapes. Its annual production approximates 180,000 bottles. Guidalberto, introduced in 2000, initially blended Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sangiovese, later evolving to exclude Sangiovese. Le Difese, the newest addition, marries Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese, yielding 120,000 bottles annually.

Located on the border between Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, beneath the Plješevica mountain near the city of Bihać, Željava Air Base once held the title of the most expansive subterranean airport and military air base within the boundaries of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (SFRY) and was among Europe's largest. These exceptional facilities are jointly managed by the municipal authorities of Bihać and the Lika-Senj County in Croatia.What is the history of Željava Air Base?The 'Objekat' series of military installations, strategically located within the former Yugoslavia, were initiated by the Ministry of Defence of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (SFRY). These bases, secluded yet significant, played a pivotal role during the Yugoslav Wars. Many of them were utilized by the Serbs in various operations, but they suffered extensive damage at the hands of Croatian forces, rendering them militarily useless. Today, these installations have garnered attention from urban explorers, though the activity is not without risk, as unexplored areas may conceal anti-personnel landmines. Some facilities escaped destruction due to unique circumstances, as control shifted away from the Serbs. One example of a surviving installation is the D-0 Armijska Ratna Komanda nuclear bunker in Konjic, which, although repurposed into an art complex, remains under the ownership of the Ministry of Defence of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The construction of Željava Air Base, codenamed 'Objekat 505,' was inspired by the mountain hangars employed by the Swedish Göta Wing (F 9). This ambitious project commenced in 1948 and reached completion in 1968. During these two decades, the SFRY invested an astonishing $6 billion, an amount equivalent to three times the combined annual military budgets of present-day Serbia and Croatia. This endeavor stood out as one of Europe's most substantial and costly military construction projects. Notably, the airfield's existence was captured through American CORONA satellite reconnaissance in 1968.The facility had a critical role in establishing and coordinating a nationwide early warning radar network in the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (SFRY), akin to NORAD in the US. It was strategically positioned on Mount Plješevica, with its 'Celopek' radar serving as the nerve center of an advanced integrated air defense network, covering Yugoslavia's airspace and territory. The complex was designed to withstand a direct hit from a 20-kiloton nuclear bomb and had tunnels accommodating fighter and reconnaissance squadrons, including units equipped with MiG-21 fighter aircraft. The underground complex featured semicircular concrete shields to absorb munition impacts and included essential facilities such as power generators, crew quarters, food, fuel, and arms storage capable of lasting 30 days. An underground water source and a network of pipes supplied fuel from a military warehouse. Above ground, the facility boasted five runways and various security measures, including mobile tracking and targeting radars, surface-to-air missile sites, and a Quick Reaction Alert aircraft ready for immediate takeoff. Access points were closely monitored, with strict authorization required for entry, and guards had the authority to use force against unauthorized individuals.The Željava Air Base was heavily utilized during the Yugoslav Wars in 1991. It saw significant destruction during the withdrawal of the Yugoslav People's Army, which deliberately damaged the runway by detonating explosives placed in pre-built spaces. The Military of Serbian Krajina further destroyed the complex in 1992, setting off an additional 56 tonnes of explosives, causing a powerful explosion that impacted the nearby city of Bihać. Presently, the area is used for canine training by local police forces and the CPA due to the lingering threat of landmines. Visiting the Željava complex is highly dangerous because of the mines. The destruction inflicted on base buildings and equipment was substantial, and the environmental damage was severe. Reconstruction efforts are hampered by financial constraints, the presence of international borders, and the extensive minefields. Nearby barracks in Ličko Petrovo Selo are operated by the Croatian Army. The base has become a transit point for illegal migrants. Although there were plans to convert it into an asylum seekers' facility or part of military training grounds, these ideas were ultimately abandoned. An agreement between the former Yugoslav countries prohibits the establishment of military facilities within 15 km of their borders. The Bihać Municipality has expressed interest in creating a local airport on the site, utilizing the existing runway.

Hongik University, also known as Hongdae, is a private university in Seoul, South Korea. Founded in 1946, it is located in the Mapo-gu district of central Seoul, with a second campus in Sejong. The university offers bachelor's degrees in art, particularly in painting and drawing, and a variety of other undergraduate and graduate programs. The undergraduate school encompasses fields such as fine arts, education, engineering, liberal arts, architecture, law, and economics. As of 2007, the university had approximately 14,500 undergraduate students and 2,600 graduate students. The term 'Hongdae' is commonly used as a shorthand reference to both the university and the surrounding neighborhood.Hongik University, founded shortly after Korean independence, was initially named Hongmoon-daehakgwan. Lee Hung Soo, an independent activist, provided the initial funds. Officially approved by the Korean government in 1948, the university expanded its departments, moving during the Korean War and eventually returning to Seoul in 1953. Over the years, it continuously broadened academic programs and physical infrastructure. In 1971, Hongik College merged with Soo-Do Engineering College, forming Hongik University. Subsequently, various departments, graduate schools, and campuses were established. The university focused on global partnerships and educational advancements, reflecting a commitment to lifelong learning.

In 1888, Vila Baiulescu was constructed on Aleea Rudolf, occupying the former location of the Curelarilor Bastion, which had been part of the northern fortifications of the medieval fortress until its demolition in 1887. This remarkable building has since been designated as a historical monument. The Curelarilor Bastion, situated at the northwest corner of the Brașov fortress, boasted a distinctive horseshoe shape, measuring over 40 meters in length and spanning between 14 to 17 meters in width. Its formidable walls, standing at over 4 meters thick at the base and reaching a height of 15 meters, served as a crucial part of Brașov's fortifications. However, the bastion suffered significant damage during the 1738 earthquake, ultimately leading to its demolition in 1887. In the following year, 1888, Dr. Gheorghe Baiulescu, the first Romanian mayor of Brașov (in 1916) and later the inaugural prefect of Brașov county following the Great Union of 1918, saw the construction of his residence on the newly vacant site. Villa Baiulescu was meticulously designed and built by Peter Bartesch in the Neo-Renaissance style. The land for this splendid villa was originally acquired by Manole Diamandi, a prosperous merchant from Brașov and the president of the Brașov 'Action Committee' dedicated to aiding Romanian soldiers wounded in the war of independence. He presented it as a wedding gift to his daughter and son-in-law, Dr. Gheorghe Baiulescu. In 1930, the villa gained a new purpose as it became the home of the library of the Transylvanian Association for Romanian Literature and Culture of the Romanian People (ASTRA), named the 'Dr. Alexandru Bogdan Library.' After nationalization in 1948, it transformed into the city library, then the municipal library of Brașov, until 1969 when it relocated to the former Chamber of Commerce and Industry building nearby. Today, Vila Baiulescu serves as one of the sections of the county library, housing various facilities including the Community Information Center, the British Cultural Center, the Japanese Cultural Center, the Media Library, the English Library, and the French Library. Additionally, the Sustainable Development Agency of Brașov County (ADDJB) operates from this site.

Gheorghe Lazăr National College, also known as Colegiul Național 'Gheorghe Lazăr' in Romanian, is a public secondary school situated on Gheorghe Lazăr Street 1-3 in Sibiu, within the Transylvania region of Romania. The Gheorghe Lazăr National College has a rich history dating back to its establishment by the Jesuits in 1692. Originally a Catholic gymnasium, it taught in Latin and began in a small building near the Great Square in Sibiu. Over the years, it moved to various locations, including a house at the corner of Mitropoliei and Samuel von Brukenthal streets. The Jesuit suppression in 1773 led to its temporary closure, but it reopened in 1780 as the Gymnasium regium Cibiniensis under Emperor Joseph II's approval. Latin remained a key focus, benefiting local Romanian students. The school adapted after the 1848-1849 Revolution, extending its study period and adopting German as the primary language in 1850, introducing Romanian as well. It evolved into the k. k. kath. Staatsgymnasium in Hermannstadt in 1853, maintaining its Catholic character until 1862. During this time, notable students like Ioan Brote, Ilie Măcelariu, and Nicolae Cristea attended. Subsequent periods saw Hungarian as the language of instruction, reflecting the Austro-Hungarian Compromise, with many Romanian students. The school moved to its current building in 1898. After Transylvania united with Romania in 1919, the language shifted to Romanian, and it became Gheorghe Lazăr High School. The institution underwent grade structure changes in 1948 and 1965. In 1992, it gained college status, becoming a national college in 1999. Attendees over the years included Emil Cioran, Gheorghe Șoima, Nicolae Manolescu, and more. The school houses both a gymnasium (grades 5-8) and a high school (grades 9-12), with a sizable library featuring historic works. The school library, established in the 18th century, boasts a substantial collection of Latin and Greek texts, some dating back to the 16th century. It contains manuscripts, historic documents, religious texts, and a wide range of books from literature to theology. The school continues to thrive with around 1000 students and a dedicated faculty.

The Lutheran Cathedral of Saint Mary, also known as the Evangelical Stadtpfarrkirche in Hermannstadt (Sibiu), and Biserica Evanghelică din Sibiu, stands as a renowned example of Gothic architecture in Sibiu, Transylvania, central Romania. Its distinctive towering steeple, rising to a height of 73.34 meters, serves as a prominent city landmark. Atop this steeple, four turrets were positioned as a symbol to signify the town's authority to impose capital punishment. The cathedral is affiliated with the Lutheran German-speaking Evangelical Church of Augustan Confession in Romania. Originally constructed during the 14th century on the site of a 12th-century Romanesque church, the Sibiu Lutheran Cathedral originally served as the Catholic parish church of St. Mary. However, during the mid-16th century, it transitioned into a Lutheran parish following the conversion of the Transylvanian Saxons to Protestantism under Johannes Honter. Over the course of three centuries, the cathedral became a burial ground for notable figures from Sibiu, including mayors and nobles. While this practice was discontinued in 1796, an exception was made in 1803 for Baron Samuel von Brukenthal, who was interred in the crypt. Electric lighting and heating were installed in the cathedral in 1910, and a comprehensive renovation was carried out in 2021. Within the Lutheran Cathedral, two substantial organs are housed. The original organ, reportedly dating back to 1350, was eventually replaced by the Sauer Organ, constructed from 1914 to 1915. Boasting 78 registers, the Sauer Organ stands as Transylvania's largest instrument. Positioned on the south balcony is the Hahn Organ, crafted by Transylvanian organ builder Johannes Hahn in 1748. Initially crafted for the parish church in Boarta, the organ later found a home at the Samuel von Brukenthal National College before being relocated to the Cathedral in 1948. Subsequent restorations were undertaken in 1988 and 2008. The cathedral's nave features notable epitaphs, including that of Samuel von Brukenthal. Another significant artistic feature is the Rosenau Fresco, a sizable fresco produced in 1445, portraying scenes from the life, passion, and ascension of Jesus Christ. Crafted by artist Johannes von Rosenau, this artwork takes its name from its creator. Additionally, the cathedral boasts a bronze baptismal font, reportedly fashioned from the melted remains of an Ottoman cannon.

The former 'Palace of Justice,' a remarkable architectural monument in the old town of Galați, was constructed between 1911 and 1913. This edifice now serves as the headquarters for the University of Galați. The building's facade is framed by two flanking wings, creating an intimate square space that accentuates its architectural splendor. The palace exterior boasts lavish embellishments and expansive windows, with the upper windows featuring full-arched arches. Notably, the lower level functions as a semi-basement, characterized by voluminous forms and intricate floral ornamentation. This ornamentation acts as a plinth upon which the other two levels rest. Internally, the structure features the hall of lost steps, covered by a decorative barrel vault adorned with elaborate stucco designs.Established in 1974, the 'Dunarea de Jos' University of Galați, Romania, resulted from the merger of the Polytechnic Institute and the Pedagogical Institute. Formerly known as the Polytechnic Institute, it traced back to the Land Improvement Institute in 1948. The Pedagogical Institute, founded in 1959, joined the merger, and in 1991, the university was renamed to honor its location.

The Faculty of Theology 'Andrei Șaguna' in Sibiu, established 220 years ago, has played a dynamic role in theological education in Transylvania. It has gone through several name changes and periods of varying quality. Notably, under figures like Dimitrie Eustatievici and Gheorghe Lazăr, it saw early development. Metropolitan Andrei Șaguna's influence led to a flourishing phase, followed by its transformation into the 'Andreian' Theological Academy during Metropolitan Nicolae Bălan's time. This era cultivated a group of specialized teachers, forming a Sibiu 'theological school.' Despite the challenges of the communist regime after 1948, faculty members persevered in their roles. They educated nearly half of the Romanian Orthodox Church's priests, maintaining ancestral spirituality in adverse conditions. The faculty played a vital role in ecumenical efforts, collaborating with various theological institutions. Since 1991, it established partnerships with other faculties and denominations. The faculty's rich history underscores its significant contributions to theology and ecumenism.

1948 (36)

Other Dates/Periods

1246

1550

01-07-2009

1542

1730

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