Prambanan Temple – The Largest Hindu Temple in Indonesia

Prambanan Temple – Prambanan Temple stands majestically on the border between the Yogyakarta Special Region and Central Java. Prambanan Temple is the biggest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia. Prambanan Temple was built in the 9th century AD and is evidence of the glory of the Ancient Mataram Kingdom by displaying the splendor of Hindu architecture in Java.

History and Architecture of the Prambanan Temple

The construction of Prambanan Temple is estimated to have started in 856 AD on the initiative of King Rakai Pikatan from the Ancient Mataram Kingdom. Prambanan Temple is dedicated to the Trimurti or Three main Hindu Gods, namely Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.

The Prambanan Temple complex is divided into three zones, namely the Main Zone, Central Zone and Outer Zone. The Main Zone is decorated with three main temples that symbolize Trimurti, namely the Shiva Temple which is the highest temple, the Vishnu Temple and the Brahma Temple. In the central zone there are Apit Temple, Nandini Temple and Garuda Temple. The outer zone of Prambanan Temple is surrounded by 240 ancillary temples which are neatly arranged.

The architectural splendor of Prambanan Temple is reflected in the intricate and beautiful details of its reliefs. These reliefs tell the stories of the Ramayana and Mahabarata, as well as the life of Javanese society at that time.

Restoration and Beauty of Prambanan Temple

In its heyday, Prambanan Temple was a majestic and beautiful temple complex. However, a powerful earthquake in the 10th century caused most of the temples to collapse. Efforts to restore Prambanan Temple began in the 18th century by the Dutch and continue until today.

Now, Prambanan Temple has become a popular tourist destination in Indonesia. This is proven by the large number of tourists who come to Prambanan Temple, both domestic and foreign tourists from all over the world.