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- History of Borubodur
- Sight and activities
Borobudur is a magnificent Buddhist temple located in Central Java, Indonesia. It is one of the most famous and important Buddhist landmarks in the world and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The history of Borobudur dates back to the 8th century during the Sailendra dynasty.
Construction of Borobudur is believed to have begun around 750 AD during the reign of the Sailendra dynasty, which was known for its patronage of Buddhism. The temple was built as a place of worship and a pilgrimage site for Buddhists. It is thought to have been constructed under the guidance of a prominent Buddhist monk named Gunadharma.
Borobudur was built in the form of a massive pyramid-like structure with nine stacked platforms. The lower six platforms are square-shaped, while the top three are circular. The entire structure is adorned with intricate relief carvings and statues, which depict various scenes from Buddhist teachings and Javanese life.
The temple was constructed using volcanic stone blocks, and it is estimated that it took thousands of workers to complete the project. The construction techniques employed were highly advanced for their time, with interlocking stone blocks and no mortar used in the construction.
Borobudur’s significance lies in its architectural and artistic excellence, as well as its religious and spiritual importance. The temple represents the Buddhist concept of the universe, with its base symbolizing the earthly realm and the topmost platform representing the realm of enlightenment.
Despite its grandeur, Borobudur’s glory was short-lived. Sometime in the 10th century, the temple was abandoned and fell into decline. Various factors, including volcanic eruptions, natural disasters, and the shift of political power in the region, contributed to its neglect and eventual burial under volcanic ash and overgrown vegetation.
Borobudur remained hidden and forgotten for centuries until its rediscovery in the early 19th century. In 1814, Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, then the Lieutenant Governor of British Java, heard of the temple’s existence and sent a team to investigate. The team uncovered the buried temple and initiated efforts to clear the site and restore it to its former glory.
Extensive restoration work was carried out over several decades, with major restoration projects taking place in the 20th century. Today, Borobudur stands as a testament to the artistic and architectural achievements of ancient Java and serves as a popular tourist destination and a place of pilgrimage for Buddhists from around the world.
The rich history and cultural significance of Borobudur have earned it recognition and protection as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It continues to be a symbol of Indonesia’s cultural heritage and a source of inspiration for people interested in ancient civilizations and religious art.
Websites which give a good history on the temple and the different levels:
- Info
1.5 to 2 hour grab taxi ride from Jogjakarta
210k IDR
- Best 3D2N side trip to Borobudur
Sleeping
Jogja
Lux: Hyatt regency
Mid: green hotel
Basic: via via
Borobudur
Lux: plataran
Mid: gecko place
Basic: ?
- eating
Lux: Mediterranean
Mid: via via
Basic: street food/ order grab food ratu satay/ olive fried chicken
- Pro tips
Go online to book tourist spot first thing in 8am. Note closing days
Go online to book for prabanam, yes can book consecutive but price not much different and you have the date constraint. Enter around 3pm as too hot before then
Sunrise / ride bicycle / bicycle trip via via /
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