Prambanan Temple Compounds

Prambanan, located near Yogyakarta in Central Java, Indonesia, represents the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia and a spectacular example of classical Javanese Hindu art and architecture. Built primarily during the mid-9th century CE, its construction is attributed to the rulers of the Mataram Kingdom's Sanjaya Dynasty, likely initiated by Rakai Pikatan and expanded by his successors like Balitung Maha Sambu. This period marked a resurgence of Hindu influence in Central Java after a period of Buddhist dominance under the Shailendra dynasty (builders of nearby Borobudur). The complex, often locally called Loro Jonggrang (referring to a legend associated with the Durga statue within), is dedicated primarily to the Trimurti – the Hindu trinity of Brahma (the Creator), Vishnu (the Preserver), and Shiva (the Destroyer). Architecturally, Prambanan is characterized by its tall, slender, and sharply pointed temple structures, typical of Hindu temple architecture in the region, contrasting with the more massive style of Borobudur. The main compound features three large temples in the inner courtyard, dedicated to Shiva (the central and tallest, rising 47 meters), Vishnu (north), and Brahma (south). Opposite these are three smaller temples dedicated to their respective mounts (vahanas): Nandi (for Shiva), Garuda (for Vishnu), and Hamsa (for Brahma). The inner courtyard is surrounded by hundreds of smaller subsidiary shrines (Pervara temples), arranged in concentric rows, though many are now in ruins. A major highlight of Prambanan is the extensive and intricately carved narrative reliefs adorning the balustrades of the main temples, vividly depicting scenes from the Ramayana (on the Shiva and Brahma temples) and the Krishnayana (childhood of Krishna, on the Vishnu temple). The temple complex likely served as the royal temple of the Mataram Kingdom. It appears to have been abandoned around the 10th century, possibly due to the shift of political power to East Java or perhaps following a major volcanic eruption from nearby Mount Merapi. Rediscovered gradually from the 18th century, significant restoration efforts were undertaken by the Dutch colonial authorities in the early 20th century and continue under the Indonesian government. As a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1991, Prambanan stands as a magnificent monument to Indonesia's classical Hindu past and artistic heritage.