What a name, try saying it without rolling the “r”s! The sound alone evokes both history and mystery, perhaps something out of Indiana Jones! This magnificent Buddhist temple, the largest in the world has long been on my bucket list.
Constructed in the 8th century AD, damaged by earthquakes and eruptions then abandoned in the 11th century and left to the jungle. Rediscovered by Thomas Stamford Raffles, yes of Singapore fame, in the late 19th century. The first reconstruction took place over 100 years ago. Faced with subsidence it was comprehensively reconstructed over 10 years from 1985 with the assistance of UNESCO.
Bright sunshine sees us leaving Jogjakarta early in the morning for the 1 hour drive to Borobodur. Dominating the northern skyline is the dark conical volcano of Mt Merapi, threatening with thick plumes of white smoke. I wonder what it would be like living with the constant reminder of Indonesia’s most active volcano on your doorstep.
Arriving at Borobodur I am impressed by the modern, slick efficiency, modern western amenities and an efficiently organised system of guides. I am also surprised by the actual layout. I expected masses of stupas scattered throughout the jungle. Instead there are manicured lawns and pathways leading up a hill to a massive but coherent temple complex. It does not disappoint.
The afternoon sees us on the other side of town at The largest Hindu Temple in South East Asia. Prambanan was built in the 7th century. Just as with Borobodur, the centuries leading to the last one were not kind to it effectively reducing it to rubble. As with Borobodur the reconstruction is nothing short of magnificent.
