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Indonesia is a country rich in cultural heritage with beautiful landmarks that are a major tourist attraction. Candi Borobudur, located in Central Java, Indonesia, is one such landmark. It is a Buddhist temple dating back to the 9th century and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.
Built during the Sailendra dynasty, Candi Borobudur took approximately 75 years to construct. It is made up of over 2 million individual stone blocks and represents the Buddhist cosmos. The temple is divided into three parts, namely Kamadhatu, Rupadhatu, and Arupadhatu.
The temple was abandoned for centuries and covered in volcanic ash after the decline of the Sailendra dynasty. It was rediscovered in 1814 by the British Governor-General of Java, Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, and underwent major restorations from 1907 to 1911 under Dutch colonial rule.
Unfortunately, Candi Borobudur suffered significant damage during earthquakes in the early 20th century. The temple was also looted, and several Buddha statues were stolen.
In 1973, the Indonesian government launched a major restoration project with the help of UNESCO, Japan, and other international organizations. The project was completed in 1983, and Candi Borobudur was restored to its former glory.
Today, Candi Borobudur is not only a major tourist attraction but also a symbol of Indonesia’s cultural heritage. The temple showcases exquisite art and architecture, including intricate stone carvings that depict stories from Buddha’s life.
Visitors can also witness the sunrise or sunset from the temple’s top, which offers a magnificent view of the surrounding landscape. In addition, visitors can learn about the temple’s history and Buddhist philosophy through multimedia displays at the on-site museum.
Candi Borobudur has been through centuries of turmoil but remains standing today, a testament to its resilience and the hard work of those who have restored it. The temple serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage for future generations.
In conclusion, Candi Borobudur is a remarkable achievement and an important part of Indonesia’s cultural heritage. Its history and restoration serve as a valuable lesson on the importance of preserving cultural relics. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, or religion.
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