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In the heart of Central Java lies a magnificent Buddhist temple called Candi Borobudur. The temple is the largest Buddhist temple in the world and a testament to the diversity and tolerance of Indonesian culture. It is an amazing place that is both awe-inspiring and fascinating.
Candi Borobudur is located in the Kedu Valley in the province of Central Java. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered to be one of the greatest achievements of the ancient Buddhist civilization. The temple was built in the eighth century AD and is known for its nine stacked platforms, three circular levels, and a central dome. The temple is decorated with over 2,500 relief panels and over 500 Buddha statues.
Historians believe that Candi Borobudur was built during the reign of the Sailendra dynasty, which was an influential dynasty that ruled Central Java during the eighth and ninth centuries AD. The temple was constructed using over two million blocks of volcanic stone that were sourced from the surrounding mountains.
One of the unique features of Candi Borobudur is that it was constructed using a combination of Buddhist and indigenous Javanese architectural styles. The temple is believed to be a reflection of the early syncretism of Buddhism with Hinduism and local animism.
Another fascinating aspect of Candi Borobudur is its impressive size. The temple covers an area of 123 square meters and is over 40 meters tall. The sheer size of the temple is a testament to the ingenuity and skills of the people who built it.
Candi Borobudur is also renowned for its intricate carvings and reliefs. The relief panels depict various stories and teachings from Buddhist mythology, including scenes from the Jataka tales. The reliefs are finely detailed and are considered to be some of the most impressive examples of Buddhist art in the world.
One of the most unique features of Candi Borobudur is the way in which the temple is aligned with the surrounding landscape. The temple is strategically located in the center of a valley, and each level of the temple is aligned with the peaks of the surrounding mountains. This alignment gives the temple a sense of harmony with the natural world.
Candi Borobudur is not just an important historical site; it is also a place of spiritual significance for many Buddhists around the world. The temple remains an active religious site, and visitors can often see monks and worshippers performing rituals and ceremonies.
Visiting Candi Borobudur is a truly unique experience that every traveler should have at least once in their lifetime. The temple is not only a testament to the diversity and tolerance of Indonesian culture but also a reflection of the ingenuity and artistry of ancient civilizations.
In conclusion, Candi Borobudur is a must-see destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or spiritualism. The temple is a true masterpiece of ancient Buddhist civilization and is a reflection of the remarkable cultural diversity of Indonesia. We hope you will add Candi Borobudur to your travel bucket list!
Goodbye, until our next interesting article.
Sources:
https://www.indonesia.travel/sg/en/destinations/java/yogyakarta/candi-borobodur
https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/592/
https://www.buddhistdoor.net/features/a-brief-history-of-borobudur