Borobudur Temple Compounds
Indonesia ·
Description
Borobudur is a cosmic mountain built by human hands. Nine platforms ascend toward nirvana, decorated with 2,672 relief panels narrating Buddha's life. At the summit, 72 perforated stupas hold meditating Buddhas. At sunrise, when mist wraps the jungle and sun gilds the stones, the temple seems to float toward heaven.
Why It's a World Heritage Site
Borobudur is the world's largest Buddhist monument and one of the greatest religious structures ever built. The reliefs represent the most complete illustration of Buddhist teachings. It was built without mortar, using a unique interlocking system.
UNESCO Criteria
Frequently Asked Questions
For being the world's largest Buddhist monument with the most complete illustration of Buddhist teachings.
It was inscribed in 1991 under criteria (i), (ii) and (vi).
At sunrise to see the mist and avoid crowds; May-October is dry season.
504 Buddhas: 432 in niches and 72 in perforated stupas.
It was covered in volcanic ash and jungle for centuries; rediscovered in 1814.