Gunung Padang Megalithic Site, Megalithic archaeological site in Cianjur, Indonesia
Gunung Padang is a megalithic archaeological site in Cianjur, Indonesia, located on a hilltop at 885 meters (2,900 feet) above sea level. The complex spreads across five ascending terraces covered with large square andesite stones that together cover an area of 900 square meters (9,700 square feet) and impress with their precise placement.
The site possibly dates back to 8000 or even 28000 BCE, which would make it older than the Egyptian pyramids. Dutch archaeologists first documented the location in 1914 in their reports, opening the scientific debate about its actual age.
The local population connects this site with King Prabu Siliwangi from the Sunda Kingdom, who according to tradition tried to build a palace here in one night. This oral tradition still shapes how people in the region view the complex and explains why many visitors approach the stones with particular reverence.
Visitors need to climb several hundred steps to reach the main complex, located 45 kilometers (28 miles) from central Cianjur. The ascent requires some physical fitness and takes about 20 to 30 minutes depending on your pace, with the path becoming slippery during rain.
Several of the megalithic stones produce different musical notes when struck, suggesting possible acoustic properties or ceremonial uses in ancient times. This feature is rare among other prehistoric sites and can still be experienced on location today.
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