Hello PikiranMedia’s Friends! Today, we are going to talk about the history of Candi Borobudur. Located in Central Java, Candi Borobudur is one of the largest Buddhist temples in the world. This magnificent temple has become a symbol of Buddhist heritage and attracts thousands of visitors every year. In this article, we are going to trace the history of Candi Borobudur and explore the significance of this cultural icon.
Origins of Candi Borobudur
The construction of Candi Borobudur began during the reign of the Sailendra dynasty in the 8th century. The temple is believed to have been built out of 2 million blocks of stone, and its architecture is heavily influenced by Indian and Javanese culture. The temple’s design is inspired by the Buddhist cosmology, which consists of 3 realms; Kāmadhātu (the realm of desire), Rupadhatu (the realm of form), and Arupadhatu (the realm of formlessness). Candi Borobudur was designed to represent these realms symbolically, and it has become a masterpiece of Mahayana Buddhist art.
Rediscovering Candi Borobudur
Despite its significance, Candi Borobudur remained unknown for centuries before it was rediscovered by the British in 1814. At that time, the temple was buried under thick jungle vegetation, and only the locals knew of its existence. It was only after the British colonial rule that the temple was cleaned and restored to its former glory. Today, Candi Borobudur is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most important temples in the world.
Significance of Candi Borobudur
Candi Borobudur is more than just a temple; it is a symbol of the Buddhist heritage in Indonesia. The temple’s design combines elements of Buddhism, Hinduism, and indigenous Javanese beliefs, reflecting the country’s diverse cultural history. The temple is also a pilgrimage site for Buddhists, and it attracts thousands of visitors every year. The temple has also been associated with the story of Samudra Manthan, where the gods and demons churned the ocean to obtain the elixir of immortality.
Restoring Candi Borobudur
Despite centuries of neglect, Candi Borobudur has survived natural disasters, including volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. However, in the 20th century, the temple was at risk of collapsing due to erosion and neglect. In the 1970s, the Indonesian government initiated a massive restoration project to save the temple from destruction. The project, which involved cleaning, stabilizing, and reinforcing the temple’s structure, took over a decade to complete. Today, Candi Borobudur remains a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage, and it is revered as one of the most significant Buddhist and architectural sites in the world.
Visiting Candi Borobudur
For those who wish to visit Candi Borobudur, the temple is open all year round. Visitors are required to purchase tickets, which include access to the temple and its surrounding park. Visitors can also hire a guide if they wish to learn more about the temple’s history and significance. The temple is located in Central Java and can be accessed by public transportation, taxis, or private vehicles. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen since the temple’s site is massive and exposed to the sun.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Candi Borobudur is a symbol of Indonesia’s cultural heritage and Buddhist legacy. Its design reflects the country’s diverse cultural influences, and its significance extends beyond its architectural beauty. Candi Borobudur is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists, a cultural icon for Indonesians, and a testament to the country’s rich history. By tracing the history of Candi Borobudur, we can appreciate the temple’s significance to the world and the legacy it represents.
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