Borobudur Temple is a magnificent ancient Buddhist structure located on the island of Java, Indonesia. The complex, that was built in the 9th century, is a masterpiece of architecture, presenting various levels, countless statues, perfect stupas and many stone carved reliefs. The temple consists of three platforms that sit on top of six different square platforms.
A devout Buddhist follower is traditionally supposed to walk around each and every level of Borobudur in an attempt to follow the series of narrative stone reliefs. This process is a symbolic parallel to the path of enlightenment. The walk can take a few hours and the sun is often extremely hot especially with the reflecting hot stones.
Borobudur temple comprises of three prestigious qualities that have now made it a World Heritage site. First, it’s easy to see form the outside with it’s delicate architecture and precise calculations that Borobudur is a masterpiece of human genius. Secondly, the temple displays a change of human values from the the Indonesian culture by showing various signs of human development in technology and architecture. During the period when Borobudur temple was built, there was a huge breakthrough in planning and design. Lastly, the temple obtained massive universal significance that is visible by the traditions, festivities and creative artistic ideas that all revolve around this temple.
Borobudur Temple complex is now the one of the most visited tourist sites in Indonesia. It is located about 42km from Yogyakarta and takes around 45 minutes to get there via bus or motorcycle.
Mark Wiens is a world cultural travel enthusiast and loves to visit historical sites around the world. Check out his collection of Borobodur pictures and articles!
For more information and pictures, take a look at his around the world cultural travel blog at: http://migrationology.com/
