The Historical Pajimatan Imogiri Tomb Complex: Final Resting Place of Mataram Kings
Pajimatan Imogiri Tomb Complex – Located in Dusun Pajimatan, Girirejo, Imogiri, Bantul, approximately 17 kilometers south of Yogyakarta, the Pajimatan Imogiri Tomb Complex is an important historical site. Perched atop Merak Hill at an elevation of 85 meters above sea level, the tomb offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. This sacred place serves as the final resting spot for the rulers of the Mataram Kingdom, from the Islamic period up to the division of the kingdom into Yogyakarta and Surakarta.
The Meaning Behind Pajimatan
The name “Pajimatan” is derived from the word “talisman,” symbolizing an object believed to ward off evil forces. Interpreted literally, Pajimatan refers to the final resting place of the Mataram Kings, who are considered to possess supernatural abilities and protect the kingdom from threats. The nearby village also shares the name Pajimatan, and its residents are primarily Kraton servants from Yogyakarta and Surakarta, tasked with maintaining the tomb complex.
Origins and Construction of the Pajimatan Imogiri Tomb Complex
The construction of the Pajimatan Imogiri Tomb Complex was initiated by Sultan Agung. After relocating the administrative center of Mataram from Kotagede to Kerto in 1540 Saka (1616 AD), Sultan Agung sought to build a separate mausoleum from the Hastorenggo mausoleum in Kotagede, where his ancestors were buried. Several legends are associated with the selection of the tomb’s location. One such legend claims that Sultan Agung threw sand into the air to determine the burial site, with the chosen spot being where the sand landed.
Initially, the sand fell in the Giriloyo region, where Sultan Agung began construction. However, after the death of his uncle, Panembahan Juminah, the Sultan of Cirebon, who was buried in Giriloyo, Sultan Agung threw sand once more. This time, it landed on Merak Hill, where he eventually built his mausoleum.
According to the Babad Momana, work on the Imogiri Tomb Complex began in 1554 Saka (1632 AD) and was completed in 1566 Saka (1645 AD). The tomb was first used following Sultan Agung’s death in 1568 Saka (1644 AD), and since then, it has been the burial site for Mataram kings and their descendants.
The Eight Astanas of Pajimatan Imogiri
The Pajimatan Imogiri Tomb Complex, also referred to as Astan or Kedhaton, is divided into eight main sections, known as astanas. These include:
- Astana Sultan Agungan
- Astana Paku Buwanan
- Astana Suwargan
- Astana Besiyaran
- Astana Saptorenggo
- Astana Kaswargan
- Astana Kaping Sangan
- Astana Kaping Sedasan
The tombs of Mataram rulers prior to the kingdom’s division are located in Astana Sultan Agungan and Astana Paku Buwanan. Notable burials in Astana Sultan Agungan include Sultan Agung and Susuhunan Amangkurat II, while Astana Paku Buwanan houses the tombs of Susuhunan Paku Buwana I, IV, and V. The eastern part of the complex contains the tombs of Yogyakarta kings, while the western side is reserved for Surakarta rulers.
Sacred Spaces and Architectural Layout
Each astana is separated by walls with gates marking the entrances. Additionally, within each astana, a wall divides the yard into sacred and non-sacred areas. The most sacred yard is located at the back, where the tombs of the monarchs are found. The courtyards are interconnected by paduraksa gates, bentar temples, and stairways.
The tomb complex is further divided into three main sections:
- Astana Kasunanan Surakarta Hadiningrat
- Astana for the Kings of Yogyakarta Hadiningrat
- Astana Suwargan for Yogyakartaโs Sultans
Conclusion
The Pajimatan Imogiri Tomb Complex stands as a sacred and historically significant site, housing the remains of Mataram’s great rulers. It continues to be a place of reverence, and its architectural and cultural significance remains preserved through time. The presence of digital documentation by institutions such as the DIY Cultural Service could ensure that this site remains well-documented for future generations, as the layout and design of the tomb complex evolve over time.
