Klero Temple: A Hidden Relic of Central Java’s Hindu-Buddhist Past
Klero Temple, located in Semarang, Central Java, is one of the lesser-known remnants of the Hindu-Buddhist monarchy. Discovered in a collapsed and disorganized state in 1995, much of its history remains shrouded in mystery.
Situated in the middle of a resident’s garden in Ngentak Hamlet, Klero Village, Tengaran District, the temple lacks surrounding historical sources, making it difficult to determine its exact origins or construction methods. The Central Java Cultural Heritage Conservation Center (BPCB) undertook restoration efforts to preserve what remains of this ancient structure.
Klero Temple consists of a single main temple, unlike other temple complexes that often feature companion temples. Its structure is terraced, similar to Yogyakarta’s Sambisari Temple. The temple measures approximately 14 by 14 meters, with a height of 4 meters.
The base of the temple features a wide terrace, measuring 4 meters across and 1.4 meters high. The central building is accessed by a staircase decorated with “makara”—mythical creatures resembling sea dragons or water monsters. At the top of the temple, there is a protrusion that surrounds the main structure. Historians believe this was once used to support pillars that have long since disappeared.
Inside the temple, various ceremonial objects were discovered, including Shiva idols and a “yoni” symbol, representing fertility. These relics have since been relocated to the Central Java Archaeological Service in Semarang for preservation, with the Shiva statue being one of the most significant finds.
Historians believe that Klero Temple is a relic of the Hindu religion, though no definitive records have been found to confirm its founding date or its builder. The temple’s simplicity, particularly the absence of relief decorations on its plain walls, suggests it may be an ancient structure.
Despite the limited historical information, Klero Temple remains a valuable cultural site, offering a glimpse into Central Java’s rich religious and architectural past.
