Banjarejo Fossil Museum Preserves Grobogan’s Prehistoric Heritage

RRI.CO.ID, Grobogan - Banjarejo Fossil Museum preserves prehistoric fossils discovered in Grobogan, Central Java. The museum stands in Medang Hamlet, Banjarejo Village, Gabus District, showcasing millions of years of natural history.

The museum began from local discoveries made while residents searched agricultural areas for valuable ancient objects. Their findings included enormous bones, eventually encouraging systematic preservation with researchers and heritage institutions.

Research indicates Banjarejo was once a shallow sea around two million years ago. The environment later changed into an ancient lagoon, river mouth, and swamp around 1.6 million years ago.

Today, the museum houses more than 500 fossil pieces from at least 15 ancient animal species. Its notable collections include Stegodon, ancient buffalo, hippopotamus, rhinoceros, deer, crocodiles, turtles, and ancient shark teeth.

One important discovery is a nearly three-meter-long Stegodon tusk displayed among the museum's highlights. The museum also preserves a remarkably complete ancient buffalo skull identified as Babulus paleokerabau.

Indonesia's Geological Agency highlighted the significance of the Banjarejo ancient buffalo discovery. The agency said the fossil represents one of the most complete ancient buffalo skull specimens found in Indonesia.

The site's historical story extends beyond prehistoric fossils into Indonesia's Hindu-Buddhist period. Ancient brick structures, pottery, ceramics, heirlooms, and jewelry have also been discovered around Banjarejo.

The museum has become an educational destination while supporting local tourism and creative economic activities. Its development provides opportunities for local guides, culinary businesses, souvenir makers, students, and researchers.