Prambanan temple is the most beautiful in the world.

If the roads to the city Yogyakarta, Indonesia then do not forget to visit sites of cultural heritage that still looks beautiful, sturdy and attractive is prambanan temple.

Prambanan is incredibly beautiful building that was built in the 10th century during the reign of two kings, and Rakai Rakai Pikatan Balitung. Rose as high as 47 feet (5 meters higher than Borobudur temple), the foundation of this temple has fulfilled the desire to show Hindu triumph in the land of Java. This temple is located 17 kilometers from the city center, in the middle of the area that is now a beautiful park.

There is a legend that Javanese people always tell about this temple. Once, a man named Bondowoso loved Roro Jonggrang. Because of his love, Jonggrang asked Bondowoso make 1000 temples with statues in one night. The request was nearly fulfilled Jonggrang asked the villagers to pound rice and to set a fire that created an atmosphere like the morning. Bondowoso who only completed 999 statues cursed into a statue to Jonggrang-1000 because he felt cheated.

Prambanan temple has three main temples in the primary yard, namely Vishnu, Brahma, and Shiva. These three temples are symbols of Trimurti in Hindu belief. All three temples were facing east. Each main temple has accompanying temple facing to the west, namely Nandini for Shiva, Swan to Brahma, and Garuda for Vishnu. In addition, there are two temples wedge, 4 temples color, and 4 corner temples. In the second there are 224 temples.

Entering the Shiva temple located in the middle and the highest building, you will find a room 4. One main room contains a statue of Shiva, while the other three rooms each containing a statue of Durga (Shiva's wife), Agastya (Shiva's teacher), and Ganesha (Shiva's son). Durga is touted as the statue of Roro Jonggrang described in the legend above.

In the Vishnu temple is located in the north of Shiva temple, you will only find one room with a statue of Vishnu. Brahma temple, which lies south of the Shiva temple, you will only find one room with a statue of Brahma.

Quite attractive accompanying temple is Garuda temple that is located near the Vishnu temple. This temple keeps a story of half-bird human being named Garuda. Garuda is a mystical bird in Hindu mythology, who was gold, white face, red wings, beak and wings like an eagle. It is estimated, the figure is Hindu adaptation of Bennu figure (means 'rises' or 'shining', associated with the god Re) in ancient Egyptian mythology or Phoenix in Old Greek mythology. Garuda succeeded in saving his mother from the curse of Aruna (Garuda's handicapped brother) by stealing Tirta Amrita (holy water of the gods).

The ability to save that which is admired by many people until now and used for various purposes. Indonesia used it to sign the country. That said, the creator of the emblem of Garuda Pancasila looking for inspiration in this temple. Other countries also use it to sign the country is Thailand, with the same reason but adaptation to the shape and appearance. In Thailand, Garuda is known or Krut Pha Krut.

Prambanan also has panels of relief describing the story of Ramayana. According to experts, the relief is similar to the Ramayana story is revealed through oral traditions. Another interesting relief is Kalpataru tree that the Hindu religion is considered as a tree of life, sustainability and environmental compatibility. In Prambanan, relief of Kalpataru tree depicted flanking a lion. The existence of this tree makes experts consider that the people of the 9th century had wisdom to manage its environment.

Just as the figure of Garuda, Kalpataru is now also used for various purposes. In Indonesia, Kalpataru is a symbol of Forum for Environment (WALHI). In fact, some scientists in Bali to develop the concept of Tri Hita Karana for environment conservation by seeing Kalpataru relief in this temple. The tree of life also can be found in the mountains that used to open the puppet arts. A proof that the relief panels in Prambanan has worldwide.

If careful, you can also see various birds relief, this time a real bird. Bird reliefs at Prambanan are so natural that biologists can identify their genus. One of these reliefs Yellow-crested Cockatoo (Cacatua sulphurea) that question. Why, the bird was actually found only in Masakambing Island, an island in the Java Sea. Then, whether the type that were once numerous in Yogyakarta? Please find out yourself. Because, until now no one else could solve the mystery.

So do not forget to stop by, there are many more which can be extracted at Prambanan. You certainly should not be bored. If it was finally exhausted, you can rest in the garden around the temple. Interested? Come soon. Since September 18, 2006, you can enter a zone of Prambanan, although not yet able to enter the temple. Some of the damage caused by the earthquake 27 May 2006 is now being repaired.

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Chichen Itza Mexico

Site Chichen Itza is a Mayan civilization in Mexico in 800SM century. Pyramid of Kukulcan at the complex historic site is believed to be the center of political and economic activities of the Mayan civilization located on the Yucatan Peninsula (now the territory of Mexico). Itza merupkan central point of the complex and other buildings such as the Pyramid Kukulcan, Temple of Chac Mool, and building the Thousand Pillar
Chichen Itza Mexico (7 Wonders of the New World)
Temple Chichen Itza is a Mayan archaeological heritage is the most complete and still well maintained. Site Mayan civilization in Mexico was, on July 7, 2007, was chosen as one of the seven wonders of the world chosen by 100 million people via email and sms (short message service) held by the Swiss Foundation.

According to the Mayan culture of Chilam Balam, the temple complex was built between the years 502-522 AD. Mayans occupy just over 200 years, then they migrate to coastal areas in Campeche. Yet another version says, Chichen Itza was built around 800 years BC.

Pyramid of Kukulcan at the complex historic site is believed to be the center of political and economic activities of the Mayan civilization located on the Yucatan Peninsula (now the territory of Mexico).

Itza is the central point of the complex and other buildings such as the Pyramids of Kukulcan, Temple of Chac Mool, and building the Thousand Pillars.

In the temple of Chichen Itza, there are two cenotes (natural wells) that made the offerings were put. That said, the Maya Indians who inhabited the city was offering jade, ceramics, and even humans to be included in the well. Offerings were given when the drought struck.

Sometimes offerings of young girls to be put alive into the pit. The role of the well is so important because in the Yucatan Peninsula there is no river. The only source of water when the drought hit is from the pits.

The name Chichen Itza means any water on the lips of the people in the local Indian language. Thus, Chichen Itza develop into the center of Mayan culture and economic governance.

Chichen Itza Mexico (7 Wonders of the New World)
That said, Chichen Itza is a symbol of veneration and science. Chichen Itza was founded Toltec king named Quetzalcoatlyang tribe came to the Yucatan Peninsula with his troops. At that time, the Maya have lived in the area, then together Toltec tribes, began to build the temple that resembles a pyramid. Thus, the peak period of Chichen Itza is a mixture of Toltec and Mayan culture.

One of the largest temples established is Kukulkan. Based on the legend of the Maya, Kukulkan is a snake-haired incarnation of the god Quetzalcoatl. Temple of Kukulkan pyramid bertangga form, with the terraces. On each side of the rectangular pyramid there are the steps to the summit. At the top there is the entrance to the room Crown Stone Jaguar King Kukulkan, which was painted red and moss green spots.

At Chichen Itza there is also a field game similar to basketball games today. Games 'pok ta pok' ie throwing the ball through a circle on a wall 7 meters above the ground. Captain of the team who first succeeded in firing the ball will be beheaded as a sacrifice to the gods.

In 1221, an uprising broke out. Wood roofs, markets and temples destroyed knight. Power over any move to Mayapan Yucatan, until the Spanish conquerors arrived.

This temple complex is extensive and each temple apart from the others. In the middle stands the temple of El Castilo (Palace), a complete renovation. Pyramid shape, the roof just blunt. Seeing the temple of El Castilo reminiscent of temple Sukuh in Karanganyar, Solo. Both temples are like a sister to the temple of El Castilo kembar.Keistimewaan are the steps to the top of the temple. Any date 21Maret and September 23, between day and night of equal length. At that time during the day, the steps of the temple in shadow. So that our eyes deceived, as if there is a lot of snakes up the temple. But the next day at the same time will seem as if the snake down the steps.

In the vicinity of the temple complex there is a statue called the Red Jaguar. According to Bishop Landa, in place of the ceremony is often held the victim. The victims consisted of leopard (Jaguar), turtles, turkeys, dogs or any animal heart. Even sometimes the victims are human too.

In the vicinity of the temple complex were also found eight patungChac Mool. Human-shaped sculpture with a sitting position looking up. Second tanggannya holding offerings and head turned to the left. Chac Mool to worship the god of rain.
Still in the complex of Chichen Itza, there are two walls of equal height. Arena between the two walls that the Maya used to play ball. It is possible that the ball made of rubber, considering the surrounding area grow rubber trees. Not only the Mayas who likes to play ball, but also the Zapotec tribe.

spurce : info.indotoplist

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ANGKOR WAT Cambodia

Angkor Wat adalah sebuah kuil yang terletak di Kamboja dan dianggap sebagai salah satu dari keajaiban dunia. Ia dibangun oleh Raja Suryavarman II pada pertengahan abad ke-12. Pembangunan candi Angkor Wat memakan waktu selama 30 tahun. Angkor Wat terletak di dataran Angkor yang juga dipenuhi bangunan kuil-kuil yang indah-indah, tetapi Angkor Wat merupakan kuil yang paling terkenal di dataran Angkor.

Raja Suryavarman II membina Angkor Wat menurut kepercayaan Hindu yang meletakkan gunung Meru sebagai pusat dunia dan merupakan tempat tinggal dewa-dewi Hindu, dengan itu menara tengah Angkor Wat adalah menara tertinggi dan merupakan menara utama dalam binaan Angkor Wat.

Sebagaimana dongeng gunung Meru, kawasan kuil Angkor Wat dikelilingi oleh dinding dan terusan yang mewakili lautan dan gunung yang mengelilingi dunia. Jalan masuk utama ke Angkor Wat yang sepanjang setengah kilometer dihiasi susur pemegang tangan dan diapit oleh laut buatan manusia yang dikenali sebagai Barays.

Jalan masuk ke kuil Angkor Wat melalui pintu gerbang, mewakili jambatan pelangi yang menyambungkan antara alam dunia dengan alam dewa-dewa.

Angkor Wat berada dalam keadaan yang baik berbanding dengan kuil lain di dataran Angkor disebabkan Angkor Wat telah ditukar menjadi kuilBuddha dan digunakan secara berterusan apabila kepercayaan Buddha menggantikan kepercayaan Hindu di Angkor pada abad ke 13. Kuil Angkor pernah dijajah oleh Siam pada tahun 1431.

Selama berabad-abad, daerah di sekitar delta Sungai Mekong dan Kamboja Tengah, berada di bawah kekuasaan Kerajaan Jawa (sekarang Indonesia). Tapi pada tahun 802, Pangeran Khmer Jayavarman II, yang dilahirkan dan dibesarkan di istana Kerajaan Jawa pada masa dinasti Sailendra, menyatakan bahwa wilayah yang didiami oleh orang Khmer, lepas dari Jawa. Dan kemudian mendirikan kerajaan baru, yaitu Kerajaan Angkor.

Pangeran Javawarman II dinobatkan sebagai Devaraja (tuhan raja) oleh seorang pendeta Brahman. Di tahun-tahun berikutnya, Jayavarman berkali-kali memindahkan ibu kotanya. Pertama-tama di Indrapura (sebelah timur Kampong Cham), kemudian ke Wat Phou (sekarang Laos ujung selatan) dan terakhir di Rolous (dekat Angkor).



Pada tahun 889, Yasovarman I menjadi raja Khmer. Dia mulai membangun Angkor, yang kemudian berganti nama menjadi Yasodharapura. RajaYasovarman memerintah sampai tahun 900.

Pada tahun 1002, Suryavarman I merebut tahta kerajaan. Di bawah pemerintahannya, wilayah kerajaan Angkor bertambah luas sampai ke wilayah-wilayah yang sekarang adalah negara Thailand dan Laos.

Pada tahun 1080, setelah Angkor ditaklukan oleh kerajaan Champa, gubernur provinsi paling utara Khmer menyatakan dirinya sebagai raja, dengan menyandang nama Jayavarman VI. Dia memerintah kerajaan Khmer baru dari provinsi paling utara Khmer. Pada tahun 1113, seorang keponakan Jayavarman VI dinobatkan menjadi raja kerajaaan Khmer. Dia memilih untuk menyandang nama Suryavarman II. Pada masa pemerintahannya, Angkor Wat dibangun.

Pada tahun 1177, Angkor kembali ditaklukan oleh pasukan Champa. Jayavarman VII, keponakan dari Suryavarman II, menjadi raja pada tahun 1181 dan kemudian menaklukan Vijaya, ibu kota kerajaan Champa (sekarang Vietnam). Di bawah pemerintahan Jayavarman VII, wilayah Khmer bertambah luas, bahkan yang terluas dari yang pernah dimiliki. Wilayahnya mencapai Thailand dan Laos, bahkan sampai ke Myanmar, Malaysia dan Vietnam. Jayavarman VII berganti agama dari Hindu ke Buddha dan menjadikan agama Buddha sebagai agama nasional yang baru.

Pada tahun 1200, Angkor Thom sebagai ibu kota kerajaan yang baru, mulai dibangun. Pembangunan Angkor Thom yang sangat besar, telah menguras sumber-sumber kekayaan kerajaan Khmer. Sehingga pada tahun-tahun berikutnya, Khmer mengalami masalah dalam perekonomian.

Pada dekade-dekade berikutnya, mulai kelihatan adanya kemunduran di Angkor. Di Barat, kerajaan-kerajaan Thai mendominasi kekuatan-kekuatan politik. Di Timur, kerajaan-kerajaan Vietnam semakin menanjak. Sebagai negara kecil, Kamboja mencoba bertahan.

Kerajaan Khmer sangat bergantung pada kerajaan-kerajaan Tai dan Vietnam. Agar dapat terbebas dari tindasan salah satu negara penakluk, Khmer membutuhkan pertolongan dari negara kuat lainnya. Tapi Khmer harus membayar seluruh hutang-hutangnya sebagai pembayaran ganti rugi.

Pada tahun 1432, setelah Angkor ditaklukkan kembali oleh kerajaan Thai, orang-orang Khmer meninggalkan ibu kota dan tinggal di dalam hutan.


source : indotoplist.com

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Borobudur Temple

Borobudur temple is located in Magelang, Central Java, about 40 km from Yogyakarta. Borobudur has 10 levels consisting of 6 levels of a square, circular level 3 circular and a main stupa as a peak. At every level there are several stupas. Altogether there are 72 stupas in addition to the main stupa. In every stupa there are statues of Buddha. Ten levels of Buddhist philosophy which describes the ten levels of Bodhisattva who must pass to reach the perfection of the Buddha in nirvana. This perfection symbolized by the main stupa at the top level. Borobudur structure when viewed from above form a mandala structure depicting Buddhist cosmology and human thinking.
This huge building just a giant pile of stone blocks which have a total height of 42 meters. Each stone connected without the use of cement or adhesive. These stones are only connected by patterns and stacked. The base of Borobudur temple is about 118 m on each side. The stones which used approximately 55,000 cubic meters. All the stones are taken from the river around the Borobudur Temple. The stones are cut and then transported and connected with a pattern like lego game. All without using glue or cement.
On the fourth side of the temple there is the gate and stairs to the level above it like a pyramid. This illustrates the Buddhist philosophy that all life came from rocks. Stone later became the sand, then into plants, then into the insect, then become wild animals and pets, and the last to be human. This process is known as reincarnation. The last process is to be the soul and eventually into nirvana. Each stage of enlightenment in this life processes based on Buddhist philosophy is illustrated in reliefs and statues in the whole temple of Borobudur.
Meanwhile, relief began to be made after the completion rocks stacked and connected. Reliefs found on the temple walls. Borobudur has different relief 2670. Relief is read clockwise. This relief illustrates a story that I read it starts and ends at the gate to the east. This shows that the main gate of Borobudur temple facing the east like most other Buddhist temples.

Borobudur was built around 800 AD or the 9th century. Borobudur was built by the followers of Mahayana Buddhism during the reign of Dynasty dynasty. This temple was built in the heyday dynasty dynasty. The founder of the Borobudur Temple, King Samaratungga originating from or dynasty dynasty dynasty. The possibility of this temple was built around the year 824 AD and was completed around the year 900 AD during the reign of Queen Pramudawardhani who is the daughter of Samaratungga. While the architects who contributed to build this temple according to stories passed down through generations named Gunadharma.
Borobudur Temple

Borobudur own words based on the first written evidence that was written by Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, Governor General of the United Kingdom in Java, which gives the name of this temple. There is no written evidence that older who gave the name of this temple of Borobudur. Only one of the oldest document showing the existence of this temple is Nagarakretagama book, written by the MPU Prapanca in the year 1365. In the book was written that this temple was used as a place of Buddhist meditation.

Meaning of the name Borobudur "abbey in the hills", which comes from the word "coal" (temple or monastery) and "beduhur" (hills or high ground) in Sanskrit. Therefore, in accordance with the meaning of the name Borobudur, then this place since long ago used as a place of Buddhist worship.

This temple for centuries no longer used. Then, because of volcanic eruptions, most of the buildings covered Borobudur volcanic soil. In addition, the building is also covered with various trees and shrubs for centuries. Then the building of this temple began forgotten in the time Islam arrived in Indonesia around the 15th century.

In 1814 when the British occupied Indonesia, Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles heard of the discovery of huge archaeological objects in the village of Magelang district Bumisegoro. Due to great interest of the history of Java, then immediately ordered Raffles HC Cornelius, a Dutch engineer, to investigate the discovery of the location was a hill covered with shrubs.

Cornelius assisted by about 200 men cut down trees and remove shrubs that covered the giant building. Because the building is already fragile and could collapse, then report to the Raffles Cornelius invention includes several images. Since the discovery, Raffles was awarded as the man who started restoration of Borobudur temple and got the attention of the world. In 1835, the entire area of ​​the temple has been unearthed. The temple is kept restored in the Dutch colonial period.

After Indonesian independence, in 1956, the Indonesian government requested the assistance of UNESCO to examine the damage to Borobudur. Then in 1963, out of the official Indonesian government's decision to conduct the restoration of Borobudur temple with the help of UNESCO. However, this restoration was only really started to be done on August 10, 1973. Process new refurbishment completed in 1984. Since 1991, Borobudur designated as World Heritage or World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

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