A Glimpse of Temples in Indonesia

Indonesia is a country that has numerous temples. In fact, few countries in the world can rival Indonesia as far as the number of temples is concerned. Although it is impossible to include all of them in this article, we are going to look at some of the most famous in Indonesia. Emphasis has been put on the most famous of these religoius structures. As such, this piece offers a glimpse of temples in Indonesia.

1. Candi Asu

Candi Asu

The Candi Asu is part of the Sengi Complex that was erected between the 8th and 9th centuries. It is a Hindu temple that is situated between Central Java and Yogyakarta. It has an external wall as the base and an internal wall as the foundation. Sandwiched between the two walls are about two meters of rocks and earth to the very top. The remaining space is dedicated to statutes. It is one of the most famous temples not only in Indonesia but also across the entire Hindu community around the world.

2. The Dieng temples

dieng temples

The Dieng Temples are a group of 7th century temples located in the Dieng plateau. The plateau has some eight Hindu temples. They are among the oldest temples that still exist in the entire Java. Attempts by historians to uncover the real name of these temples have been futile. Establishing the history of the temples and the king who oversaw their construction has not been possible. The temples are closely built in three groups. They are namely Gatotkaca, Dwarawati, and Arjuna clusters. The Bima temple was constructed as a separate single temple.

3. The Jawi temple

jawi temples

This temple stands on the eastern slopes of Mount Welirang. It is about thirty-one kilometers to the west of Pasuruan city. The temple was especially dedicated as a mortuary to king Kertanegara. It is also believed that the ashes of the same king are preserved in two other temples. The compound on which the temple is located measures about 40 by 60 square meters. Further, it is enclosed in brick walls that are about 2 meters high. The structure is a tall and narrow shape with a pinnacle at the very top. The total height of the monumental structure is about twenty four meters. With main stairs facing east, its doors are made of cella.

4. The Kimpulan Temple

kimpulan temple

This Hindu temple belongs to the 9th and 10th century. The temple was buried about five meters beneath the ground. Of recent, parts of the temple have been excavated, unmasking the real shape and architectural design. This temple remained unknown until 2009 when during an excavation work it was accidentally discovered. Its unmasking drew a lot of excitement and curiosity not only in Indonesia but also across the whole world. It was during the construction of a university library that it was discovered. The news of its discovery spread like wild fire across the world and sightseers trooped to the spot to marvel at the forgotten structure. It was also a juicy headline for many a global newspaper.

5. The Mother Temple of Besakih

besakih-temple

The exact origins of this temple are not clear. Scholars however concur that it belongs to the prehistoric times. It is believed that the temple has been existence for well over 2000 years. The structure is erected on the southern slopes of mount Agung, the main volcano of Bali. The Mother Temple is actually a great complex that consists of twenty-two temples that stand on parallel terraces. The Pura Penataran Agung ios the central complex in the chain of temples. Seventy festivals are held at the temple every year. This is because almost every shrine has an annual anniversary to be observed. Anyone visiting this great temple should very careful since it is noted for various syndicates. The syndicate imposes exorbitant fees in the guise of hiring tour guides. Some sly cons also offer special prayers and ask to be paid for them. You should simply ignore them.

6. The Sukuh temple

candi-sukuh-temple

The Sukuh temple is famous for its scholastic themes. It offers education on sexuality and life before birth. The main monument there is a pyramid with statues and reliefs in front of it. Unlike other temples that boast a lot of yeas, the Sukuh temple is much younger as it was constructed in the fifteenth century. It is located on the slopes of Mount Lawi.

Posted by Glimpse Team

The Glimpse offers a unique look at things we may or may not know exist, our past, present and future are what makes us unique.

Leave a Reply