Candi Sewu | Yogyakarta

Candi Sewu (often translated as the Thousand Temples Temple) is an ancient Buddhist temple complex located in Central Java, Indonesia. It is one of the largest Buddhist temple complexes in Indonesia, situated near the more famous Prambanan Temple, another significant Hindu temple site. Candi Sewu is an important archaeological and historical site, offering insight into the Buddhist heritage of the region, its architecture, and the influence of the Syailendra Dynasty.

Overview

• Location: Candi Sewu is located about 800 meters to the north of Prambanan Temple, near the village of Trepo in Klaten, Central Java. The temple complex is easily accessible from the main Yogyakarta-Solo road, making it a popular site for visitors exploring the region’s rich cultural heritage.
• Name: The name "Sewu" translates to "Thousand" in Javanese, though it is unlikely that there were actually a thousand temples in the complex. The name likely refers to the large number of shrines and stupas in the area. In total, there are about 249 temples scattered across the complex.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Construction Period:

• Candi Sewu was built during the 8th century, around the same time as Prambanan Temple. It is believed to have been constructed during the reign of the Syailendra Dynasty, which was a powerful Buddhist dynasty in Java.
• The temple complex is thought to have been completed around the same time as the Mataram Kingdom, which was a Hindu-Buddhist kingdom in Java. The Mataram Kingdom had a significant influence on the spread of Buddhism and Hinduism across the region.

Buddhist Influence:

• Unlike the Hindu temples of Prambanan, Candi Sewu is a Buddhist temple complex. It reflects the influence of Mahayana Buddhism, the form of Buddhism that was practiced in Java during that period.
• The temple complex’s architecture and design are closely linked to the Buddhist religious traditions that were prevalent in the region at the time, showcasing the rich Buddhist heritage of Central Java.

Abandonment and Rediscovery:

• Like many other ancient sites in Java, Candi Sewu was abandoned and fell into ruin. Over the centuries, it became overgrown with vegetation, and much of the temple complex was lost to time.
• The temple was rediscovered in the early 20th century, and excavation and restoration efforts began, bringing it back into the public eye.

Architectural Features

Main Temple:

• The central temple of Candi Sewu is the largest structure in the complex. It stands on a raised platform and is surrounded by smaller temples. The central temple is characterized by its stupa, a common feature in Buddhist temples, which represents the Buddha's enlightenment.
• The main temple is surrounded by eight smaller stupas, each of which contains a Buddha statue.

Smaller Temples:

• The temple complex contains a total of 249 small temples, arranged in a rectangular pattern around the central temple. These smaller temples were likely used for various rituals, meditation, and offerings to the Buddha.
• Each small temple is built with a similar architectural style, with a square base, a small central chamber, and a roof in the shape of a stupa.

Reliefs and Sculptures:

• The walls of the temples at Candi Sewu are adorned with intricate reliefs depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology, Buddha's life, and various bodhisattvas. These carvings serve not only as artistic expressions but also as spiritual teachings, telling stories from the life of Buddha and his path to enlightenment.
• The reliefs are highly detailed and offer insight into the artistic traditions of the Syailendra Dynasty. Many of the scenes reflect the themes of compassion, enlightenment, and the cycle of reincarnation.

Layout:

• The temple complex is designed in a rectangular layout, with the central temple at the core. The temples are arranged in a grid-like formation around the central structure, creating a sense of order and balance.
• The main temple is connected to a rectangular courtyard, which is surrounded by the smaller temples. The entire complex is encircled by a stone wall, with entrance gates on all four sides.

Visiting Candi Sewu

Attractions and Highlights:

• The Central Temple: The main temple is the largest and most impressive structure within the complex. Its stupa is a focal point for visitors, and the view of the entire complex from the central temple is stunning.
• Reliefs and Sculptures: Visitors can marvel at the intricate carvings that adorn the walls of the temples. These reliefs offer a fascinating glimpse into the Buddhist iconography and artistic traditions of ancient Java.
• The Smaller Temples: The smaller temples surrounding the central structure provide a sense of the vastness and scale of the original complex, and walking between the temples offers a serene and reflective experience.

Restoration Efforts:

• Candi Sewu has undergone several restoration projects to preserve the site and prevent further damage. The restoration efforts have brought back much of the temple’s original grandeur, although some parts of the complex remain in a more fragmented state.
• Visitors to the site can observe ongoing preservation work and learn about the efforts being made to protect this historical treasure.

Nearby Attractions:

• Candi Sewu is located near Prambanan Temple, a major Hindu temple complex. Visitors to one site often take the opportunity to visit the other, as both temples are significant landmarks in the region.
• The nearby Ratu Boko Temple is another important historical site, offering panoramic views of the area and providing insight into the region's royal history.

Best Time to Visit:

• The best time to visit Candi Sewu is early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. The site is typically less crowded than Prambanan Temple, offering a more tranquil and peaceful experience for visitors.

How to Get There:

• Candi Sewu is located just a short distance from Prambanan Temple. Visitors can reach the site by car, taxi, or tourist bus from Yogyakarta, which is approximately 17 kilometers away. There is a designated parking area for visitors, and the site is easily accessible from the main road.

Conclusion

Candi Sewu is an impressive and culturally significant Buddhist temple complex that offers a fascinating glimpse into the Buddhist heritage of Central Java. With its intricate reliefs, stupas, and peaceful surroundings, the site is a must-visit for those interested in Buddhist history, architecture, and ancient Javanese culture. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply looking for a tranquil place to explore, Candi Sewu provides a unique and enriching experience.