Hello PikiranMedia’s Friends, let’s dive into the world of Candi Borobudur – the magnificent Buddhist temple located in Magelang, Central Java.
The Majesty of Candi Borobudur
A Glimpse into the History and Architecture of Ancient Java
Candi Borobudur is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visited by millions of tourists from all over the world. Built during the 8th and 9th centuries, it is the largest Buddhist temple in the world. It was constructed with more than 2 million blocks of volcanic stones which were shaped and fitted together perfectly without using any cement or glue.
This masterpiece of architecture reflects Java’s rich culture and history. The temple was built during the Sailendra dynasty, a ruling dynasty of Java during the 8th to 9th centuries. The Sailendras were devoted Buddhists and it was during their rule that many impressive Buddhist temples were erected in Java, including Candi Borobudur.
Candi Borobudur is a wonder of symmetry and meticulousness. The temple’s shape is a massive pyramid that has three tiers. The first two tiers are a square, while the top tier is circular, with a total of 72 stupas seated with Buddha statues. Each stupa is a bell-shaped building decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures.
Aside from the stupa, the walls of Candi Borobudur are also adorned with detailed bas-reliefs that showcase intricate stories about Buddha’s journey and the Javanese way of life during the temple’s construction. In total, there are 2,672 relief panels and 1,460 decorative columns adorning the temple walls.
Visiting Candi Borobudur gives you a glimpse into the golden age of Javanese culture. The temple’s construction represents the peak of Javanese civilization and shows the influence of various cultures like ancient India, China, and Southeast Asia.
Over the centuries, Candi Borobudur went through many changes and disasters, including natural disasters and political upheavals. In the 14th century, the temple was abandoned and eventually buried under layers of volcanic ash and jungle growth. It was not rediscovered until the early 19th century when the Dutch colonial government conducted a large-scale restoration effort.
Despite everything, Candi Borobudur still stands strong today and continues to inspire awe and admiration. It is a symbol of the great achievements of ancient Java and the country’s rich history and culture.
When visiting Candi Borobudur, take the time to marvel at its beauty and explore its incredible history. There are also other nearby temples worth visiting like Candi Pawon and Candi Mendut. Additionally, Candi Borobudur hosts an annual Vesak ceremony, a Buddhist celebration that involves a procession to the temple and the lighting of thousands of candles.
Candi Borobudur’s majesty is a marvel of history and architecture that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Visiting it is an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of the temple’s beauty and history.
The Legacy of Candi Borobudur
Candi Borobudur is a testament to the greatness and perseverance of the Javanese people who built it. It is a reminder of a time when art, culture, and religion melded together perfectly to create something truly magnificent.
Today, Candi Borobudur serves as an inspiration for all who visit, reminding us of the importance of preserving ancient treasures like this temple. It is a reminder that our past is what makes us who we are today and that we should always strive to honor and cherish the legacy of our ancestors.
In conclusion, Candi Borobudur is a true gem of Java, and one that should be on every traveler’s list. Plan a visit and immerse yourself in the majesty of this incredible temple complex.
Goodbye for now, and stay tuned for more interesting articles!