Who doesn’t know the temple of Prambanan? Standing high and stunning, that is the most important Indian temple in Indonesia. Since 1991, Prambanan has been recognized because the UNESCO World Heritage site, a title that emphasizes its importance not just for Indonesia, but for the world.
Of the 240 temple structures spread over an area of 390 meters wide, Prambanan rises majestically along the foremost Solo-Yogyakart road in Indonesia. Both local and international guests are delighted by the breathtaking architecture and the deep history of Prambanan.
If you’re curious more, here is all the pieces you must find out about this great temple complex.
History of Prambanan
According to the official website Pambanan.injourneydestination.idThe exact date of construction and the ruler who commissioned the temple of Prambanan remain uncertain. However, many historians consider that it was built in the course of the ninth century in the course of the reign of King Balitung Maha Sambbu from the Sanjay dynasty.
Prambanan was dedicated to Trimurti, three highest deities in Hinduism. Brahma Creator, Vishnu, Conservator and Shiva, destroyer. The original temple complex was designed in an oblong arrangement, consisting of three courtyards. These are Jaba (external courtyard), Tengahan (middle courtyard) and Njron (the inner courtyard).
The temple was first discovered in 1814 by Sir Stamford Raffles, which at the moment served because the British Governor of Java. Since then, Prambanan has undergone several serious additions, and the most important carried out in 1975–1982 under the supervision of the Indonesian and UNESCO government.
The legend of roro jonggrang and ramayana reliefs
One of essentially the most famous legends related to Prambanan is the love story of Prince Bandung Bondowoso and Princess Roro Jonggrang, daughter of his enemy. To get a heart, the princess demanded two not possible conditions. They are digging a deep well and construct 1,000 temples in a single night.
With the assistance of his mystical Ghost Army, Bandung Bondowoso managed to finish 999 temples. However, Roro Jonggrang saboted the method to forestall the development of the last temple. The prince furious at her treason, converted her into stone because the last piece that finished hundreds of temples.
In the temple, guests may find exquisite reliefs depicting Hindu epic Ramajana. The sculptures tell a story about how Shinta, the wife of the frame, was kidnapped by King Demon Ravana. In addition, like Hanuman, he got here to the assistance of a frame seeking her saving.
How to get there
Are you planning to analyze the wonders of Prambanan? Getting there is straightforward with many routes to pick from:
- From the Yogyakarta railway station: Take the train to work from Tugu station to the Brampanan station, after which proceed by taxi online or local pedicabs.
- By bus from Malioboro: Jump on the Trans Jogja bus (route 1a) from the Malioboro shelter, after which go a brief distance to the temple.
- By a personal vehicle: Drive along the Solo-Yogyakart highway. From Yogyakart, you’ll be able to access it via Ring Road or through Laksda Adisutjipto Street. Prambanan is situated 16 km, north of the road.
Special performances: Ballet Ramayana Prambanan
Sendratari Ramayana Prambanan is a conventional dance performance with no dialogue that tells the story of Ramajana. From 1961, this special program was exhibited on the outdoor theater with the majestic temple of Prambanan as a background.
This magical performance combines over 200 skilled dancers and native musicians. Creating a very unforgettable and charming atmosphere for the audience.
Sendratari Ramayana Prambanan often takes place every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Outdoor performances happen only within the dry season (May-October). Also within the rainy season (Januari-april and November-December) the show takes place on the Trimurti stage.
The temple of Prambanan is greater than an ancient monument, it’s a timeless symbol of the cultural and spiritual identity of Indonesia. With great architecture, fascinating legends and centuries of history, Prambanan still amazes and inspires guests from around the globe.
A visit to Prambanan just isn’t only visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site. But also concerning the experience of harmony of art, history and faith that survived for generations.
