Borobudur Temple
Java Region
Borobudur Temple, located in Central Java, Indonesia, is a monumental 9th-century Mahayana Buddhist temple built during the Sailendra Dynasty. Constructed from gray andesite stone, it features nine stacked platforms-six square and three circular-topped by a large central dome surrounded by 72 Buddha statues housed in perforated stupas. The temple is adorned with 2,672 relief panels and originally contained 504 Buddha statues, making it home to one of the world's most extensive collections of Buddhist reliefs. Architecturally, Borobudur blends indigenous Javanese ancestor worship traditions with Buddhist concepts of attaining nirvāṇa, symbolizing the journey from the earthly realm to enlightenment. The temple serves both as a shrine and a pilgrimage site, guiding visitors through a complex system of stairways and corridors that narrate Buddhist teachings through 1,460 relief panels. After being abandoned in the 14th century due to the decline of Hindu kingdoms and the rise of Islam in Java, Borobudur was rediscovered in 1814 by Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles. Since then, it has undergone significant restorations, including a major UNESCO-backed project completed in 1983. Today, it remains a vibrant spiritual site, especially during Vesak Day celebrations, and is Indonesia's most visited monument, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a pinnacle of Southeast Asian archaeological heritage.
Planifiez votre voyage en Indonésie avec l'IA
Créez un itinéraire détaillé en quelques minutes. L'IA suggère les meilleurs endroits, restaurants et un itinéraire optimisé.
Astuce: Visitors are advised to explore Borobudur early in the morning to experience the temple at sunrise, offering spectacular views and a serene atmosphere. Tickets should be purchased in advance, especially during Vesak Day and peak tourist seasons, to avoid long queues. Modest dress is recommended out of respect for the site's religious significance. Guided tours can enrich understanding of the extensive reliefs and symbolism. Discounts may be available for students and groups. The temple is accessible via nearby towns such as Muntilan and Yogyakarta, with various transport options available.
Faits intéressants
- •Borobudur contains 2,672 intricately carved relief panels, the largest number of Buddhist reliefs in the world.
- •The central dome is surrounded by 72 Buddha statues seated inside perforated stupas.
- •Borobudur is considered a three-dimensional mandala symbolizing the Buddhist cosmology of Kamadhatu, Rupadhatu, and Arupadhatu realms.
- •It was largely forgotten and covered by volcanic ash and jungle before its rediscovery in 1814.
- •The temple's name possibly derives from Javanese words meaning 'great' or 'honorable' and 'Buddha' or from Sanskrit meaning 'mountain of virtues.'
- •Borobudur remains an active pilgrimage site, especially during Vesak Day, attracting Buddhists worldwide.
Histoire
Borobudur was constructed in the 8th to 9th centuries under the Sailendra Dynasty, reflecting a unique blend of indigenous Javanese and Buddhist architectural styles.
It was likely inaugurated by Pramodhawardhani, daughter of King Samaratungga, as indicated by inscriptions dated 824 and 842.
The temple was abandoned in the 14th century following the decline of Hindu-Buddhist kingdoms and the spread of Islam in Java.
Rediscovered in 1814 by Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, Borobudur underwent several restorations, the most significant completed in 1983 with UNESCO's support.
In 1991, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, ensuring its preservation and international recognition.
Guide du lieu
Square Platforms (Kamadhatu and Rupadhatu)9th century
The six square terraces represent the realms of desire and forms, featuring extensive reliefs depicting Buddhist teachings and scenes from daily life. Pilgrims circumambulate these levels clockwise, following the path to enlightenment.
Circular Platforms and Central Dome (Arupadhatu)9th century
The top three circular platforms symbolize the formless realm. They are crowned by the large central dome surrounded by 72 perforated stupas, each housing a seated Buddha statue in the lotus position with Dharmachakra mudra.
Relief Panels9th century
Borobudur's walls and balustrades are covered with 1,460 narrative relief panels illustrating Buddhist cosmology, teachings, and Javanese life in the 9th century, serving as a visual guide for pilgrims.
Contact
Téléphone: 0811-2688-000