Borobudur Temple - One of the Greatest Monuments in the World
Posted Thursday, October 29, 2009
Unique Undamaged Buddhist Temple
The eight-century Borobudur Temple is beautiful situated in the Kedu Plain of Central Java, Indonesia. The temple is an exceptional survival of an undamaged Buddhist temple from this era and therefore one the most impressive monuments in Asia and one of the greatest architectural structures in the world. The Temple was built for the Sailendra dynasty and it took about 80 years to complete it.
The Sacred Flower of Buddha
Borobudur Temple and its surroundings look like a microcosm of the universe. The Buddhist Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and designed like the sacred flower of Buddha, the lotus. The design of the structure visualizes the teachings of Buddha and the steps one has to take in life to reach enlightment.
The Design of the Steps in Life
Six rectangular stories together form the pyramid. Pilgrims started their visit from the base level, where they learned about living in the world of desires and his consequences. Then they walked up the five successive levels to learn how to conquer this world and these feelings.
Overwhelming View over Rice-terraced Hills
On top three round terraces form the lotus. Around the round platforms 72 sculptures of meditating Buddha and saints are built on openwork stupas in overwhelming peace with a wonderful view over the rice-terraced hills and four volcanoes. In the center of the top level a stupa, a tower designed like a bell, points straight up to heaven. It's known as Nirvana; beyond form and concept.
Abby Agier has been an editor for the travel industry for over 20 years. Next to publishing about the most beautiful places in the world she is also a fashion editor and writes all about women's cowboy boots and follows the latest trends on casual cowboy boots.
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