Banyunibo Temple: A Glimpse into Ancient Javanese Architecture
Banyunibo, meaning “dripping water” in Javanese, is a 9th-century Buddhist temple. It’s located in Cepit Hamlet, Bokoharjo Village, Prambanan, Sleman Regency, within the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Dating back to the era of the Mataram Kingdom, this temple is nestled in a narrow valley surrounded by lush paddy fields. It lies about two kilometers southeast of the Ratu Boko archaeological park and close to the famous Prambanan temple and the Gunung Sewu Hills.
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Unique Architectural Features
Banyunibo stands out among Central Java’s Buddhist temples due to its unique design. The temple features a curved rooftop crowned with a solitary stupa. This design might symbolize lotus petals or mimic traditional roofs made from ijuk fibers. These fibers, common in ancient Javanese architecture, are still used in Balinese temples today. Originally, stupas surrounded the main structure at ground level, and their foundations remain visible. These stupas are arranged in rows on the south and east sides of the temple, with similar structures likely buried on the north side. The main temple faces west, a typical orientation for Javanese temples.
Temple Reliefs and Decorations
The temple is richly decorated with intricate reliefs. The stairs and portal feature the typical Kala-Makara style, with Makara on each side of the stairs and a Kala head above the portals. Niches around the temple’s body house images of Bodhisattvas, while niches above the windows display images of Taras holding flowers. Inside, the walls are adorned with an image of Hariti surrounded by children, Vaisravana, and a bald male figure under an umbrella, possibly representing a temple patron.
Historical Excavation and Restoration
The ruins of Banyunibo were first discovered in November 1940. Initial research and partial reconstruction of the roof and portal began but were interrupted by World War II and the Indonesian National Revolution. Restoration resumed in 1962, focusing on the sub-basement, foot, and wall sections. By 1978, the temple’s reconstruction was completed.
Cultural and Historical Significance
Banyunibo Temple is part of a cluster of temples, including the nearby Ratu Boko complex, Barong Temple, and Ijo Temple. These sites together form a significant cultural and historical landscape, showcasing the region’s rich Buddhist heritage. Despite being found in a collapsed state, continuous efforts have preserved and restored Banyunibo, allowing visitors to appreciate its historical and architectural value.
Description of the Surrounding Area
The ruins of the ancillary temple of Banyunibo include remnants of a circular building, possibly once a stupa. The temple stands amidst sugar cane fields and rice paddies. It is believed to have been surrounded by six smaller companion temples (perwara temples) in the form of stupas. Unlike the main temple made of durable andesite, these perwara temples were constructed from white stone, which has not withstood the test of time as well. To the north, a 65-meter-long stone wall stretches from west to east, marking the temple complex’s extent.
Conclusion
Banyunibo Temple, with its unique curved rooftop and intricate decorations, offers a fascinating glimpse into 9th-century Javanese architecture. Its restoration and preservation reflect ongoing efforts to maintain Indonesia’s rich historical legacy, making Banyunibo a valuable site for historical study and cultural tourism.
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