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The huge Prambanan complex was erected in the middle of the 9th century – around 50 years later than Borobudur – but little is known about its early history. It’s thought that it was built by Rakai Pikatan to commemorate the return of a Hindu dynasty to sole power in Java. |
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| Inside the temples is just as nice as the outside. |
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Candi Shiva Mahadeva This temple, dedicated to Shiva, is not only the largest of the temples but also the finest. |
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| The detailed stone carving is everywhere. |
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| The main spire soars 47m and dominates the skyline. |
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| It is best to visit in the early morning to avoid the heat and crowds. |
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| Right next door is Candi Sewu The ‘Thousand Temples’, dating from around AD 850, originally consisted of a large central Buddhist temple surrounded by four rings of 240 smaller ‘guard’ temples. |
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| The renovated main temple has finely carved niches around its inner gallery – these niches once held bronze statues. |
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| One of the guards at the entrance. |
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| Check back often as next I will visit more temple complexes here in Central Java. |
