Borobudur: Center of the Universe

The Grandeur and Beauty of Borobudur Temple in Central Java, Indonesia

Borobudur Aerial Views by PT.Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur, Prambanan & Ratu Boko [PERSERO]PT. Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur Prambanan dan Ratu Boko

Located in Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia, the Borobudur Temple is world's biggest Buddhist temple.

After its rediscovery in the first half of the 19th century, it is now known as one of the most unique cultural heritage sites globally.

Known to the locals as "Candi Borobudur," the temple was built in the 9th century.

A puppet show near Borobudur. (Unknown) by PT.Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur, Prambanan & Ratu Boko [PERSERO]PT. Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur Prambanan dan Ratu Boko

With the main entrance from the East Side Pedestrian Walkway, visitors are greeted with lion statues and can walk up nine platforms.

Lion statue by PT.Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur, Prambanan & Ratu Boko [PERSERO]PT. Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur Prambanan dan Ratu Boko

Relief Mahakarmawibangga at southeast corner. by PT.Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur, Prambanan & Ratu Boko [PERSERO]PT. Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur Prambanan dan Ratu Boko

This base level of Borobudur has been covered by a supporting foundation, so it is hidden from view. During an investigation by Yzerman in 1885 the original foot was discovered.

Borobudur’s hidden Kamadhatu level consists of 160 reliefs depicting scenes of Karmawibhangga Sutra, the law of cause and effect. Illustrating the human behaviour of desire, the reliefs depict robbing, killing, rape, torture and defamation.

Borobur is structured from 55,000 square meters of Andesite stone without any adhesive.

There are four main Balustrade galleries, each with its own level. The first gallery consists of an upper and a lower section with reliefs featuring both narrative tales and decorative carvings.

As you travel up, visitors can see more from the Jataka, which are stories from before Buddha's birth as Prince Siddhartha, and Avadana tales, in which other legendary characters are the focal point.

Gate to the next terrace. by PT.Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur, Prambanan & Ratu Boko [PERSERO]PT. Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur Prambanan dan Ratu Boko

A "Kalas," meaning time, is a gate located on the different levels of the temple where visitors can "walk through time."

A tea-house. by PT.Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur, Prambanan & Ratu Boko [PERSERO]PT. Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur Prambanan dan Ratu Boko

On the upper level of the temple, there are 72 beautifully perforated stupas, which are arranged in concentric circles.

Diamond shape. by PT.Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur, Prambanan & Ratu Boko [PERSERO]PT. Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur Prambanan dan Ratu Boko

The stupas located on the upper platforms of the temple are dominated by a majestic dome, representing "perfection" or "Englightenment."

The impressive central stupa is currently not as high as the original version, which rose 42m above ground level, the base is 9.9m in diameter.

Unlike the stupas surrounding it, the central stupa is empty and conflicting reports suggest that the central void contained relics, and other reports suggest it has always been empty.

A puppet show near Borobudur. (Unknown) by PT.Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur, Prambanan & Ratu Boko [PERSERO]PT. Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur Prambanan dan Ratu Boko

To this day, the origin of the name "Borobudur" still remains a great mystery.

Borobudur Temple: World Cultural Heritage by PT.Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur, Prambanan & Ratu Boko [PERSERO]PT. Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur Prambanan dan Ratu Boko

Truly a world-class heritage site, Borobudur brings a sense of pride to the people of Indonesia. It is a must-see for visitors from all over the world.

Credits: Story

PT.Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur, Prambanan & Ratu Boko [PERSERO]

Credits: All media
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