Candi Sewu: Prambanan's Older and Underrated Neighbor

[RRI.CO.ID], Klaten - Candi Sewu is an eighth-century Buddhist temple complex in Bugisan Village, Prambanan District, Klaten, Central Java. Located within the Prambanan area, the site predates the famous Prambanan Temple and offers a quieter cultural experience.

Despite its historical importance, Candi Sewu receives less attention than Prambanan, whose monumental architecture and Roro Jonggrang legend attract visitors worldwide. This makes Sewu an underrated destination for travelers seeking a deeper cultural experience beyond Indonesia's most famous temples.

The name Sewu means “one thousand” in Javanese, although the complex actually contains 249 temple structures. They consist of one main temple, eight companion temples, and 240 smaller surrounding temples.

The complex follows a mandala layout associated with Buddhist cosmology and spiritual symbolism. Its central temple is surrounded by successive rows of smaller temples, creating an impressive sense of scale and hierarchy.

Large Dwarapala guardian statues stand at the entrances and form one of the complex's most recognizable features. Surviving carvings on the temple walls also reflect the sophistication of ancient Javanese stone craftsmanship.

Some reliefs are believed to depict Jataka stories associated with the Buddha's previous lives. Although many carvings have suffered damage, the remaining details provide valuable insights into Buddhist art and storytelling in ancient Java.

Candi Sewu also stands remarkably close to Prambanan, a major Hindu temple complex. Their proximity reflects the religious and cultural diversity that existed in Java during the Ancient Mataram period.

The temple suffered significant damage from earthquakes and other natural events over the centuries. Ongoing restoration has helped preserve the site while leaving visible traces of its long and complex history.

For international travelers, Candi Sewu offers an opportunity to explore an ancient Buddhist monument often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor. Its age, architectural scale, and peaceful atmosphere make it a compelling destination for discovering a lesser-known side of Prambanan.