The Fascinating Story of Candi Prambanan: A Symbol of Devotion and Awe-inspiring Design
Hello PikiranMedia’s Friends! Let me take you on a journey to Indonesia, a country known for its rich culture and traditions. One of the most remarkable structures in Indonesia is the Prambanan Temple Complex, also known as Candi Prambanan. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an exquisite example of Hindu-Javanese architecture. Candi Prambanan is located in Yogyakarta, Central Java, and is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the country’s majestic history and culture.
The Legend of Candi Prambanan
Candi Prambanan dates back to the 9th century during the reign of Rakai Pikatan, the second king of the Mataram Kingdom. According to legends, the temple was built to celebrate the victory of the Mataram Kingdom over the Sailendra Dynasty.
The temple was dedicated to Trimurti, the Hindu godhead consisting of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The Trimurti is believed to symbolize the universe’s three functions: creation, preservation, and destruction.
The Architecture of Candi Prambanan
Candi Prambanan is a masterpiece of Hindu-Javanese architecture towering at 47 meters high. It is made up of three main temples, each dedicated to the Trimurti. The main temple, the Shiva temple, is the highest at 47 meters, followed by the Brahma and Vishnu temples.
The temple was built using volcanic rock and was precisely constructed without the use of cement. Its intricate carvings and reliefs depict the epic of Ramayana and Mahabharata, making it a significant religious and cultural site.
The Restoration of Candi Prambanan
Candi Prambanan was severely damaged in the 16th century due to a massive earthquake. It was only in the 1930s that the restoration of the temple began under the Dutch colonial rulers.
The restoration took several decades to complete and was finally finished in 1991. The temple was restored to its former glory, and its intricate carvings and reliefs were brought back to life.
The Mythology of Candi Prambanan
The temple’s carvings and reliefs depict the stories of Ramayana and Mahabharata, two epic Hindu mythologies. According to the Ramayana, the temple was built by Rama, an incarnation of Vishnu, to worship Shiva, a powerful Hindu god, and the temple’s main deity.
The legend of the Mahabharata also has ties with the temple. The temple’s construction took place during the reign of Pandawa, the five royal sons of Pandu. They are believed to be the ancestors of the Mataram Kingdom and were responsible for the temple’s construction.
Visiting Candi Prambanan Today
Visiting Candi Prambanan is a must for anyone who wants to experience Indonesia’s rich culture and history. The temple complex is open daily from 6 am to 6 pm, and the entrance fee is around IDR 400,000 for foreigners and IDR 30,000 for locals.
It is best to visit the temple complex early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and the crowds. It is recommended to hire a guide who can provide insights into the temple’s history and architecture.
The End of the Journey
Thank you for joining me on this journey to Candi Prambanan, a symbol of devotion and awe-inspiring design. Indonesia is a country full of wonders, and Candi Prambanan is just one of them.
Until next time, let’s travel to another fascinating destination in Indonesia. Goodbye!