Banyunibo, Buddhist temple complex in Cepit, Indonesia
Banyunibo is a Buddhist temple complex in Cepit featuring one main structure oriented westward and six surrounding stupas arranged in two rows of three on the south and east sides. The central building contains an interior chamber accessible to visitors, and the entire site displays classic Buddhist architectural design from the region.
The temple was built in the 9th century during the Ancient Mataram Kingdom period, representing an important construction from that era. It underwent restoration work in the 1940s and again between 1976 and 1978 to preserve its original form.
The temple walls show relief carvings of Buddhist deities, including Hariti, the goddess of fertility, depicted with children, and her husband Vaisravana. These figures reveal which gods held meaning for worshippers and how spiritual beliefs were expressed through carved stone.
The interior chamber accommodates a maximum of five visitors at a time, with each group limited to 15-minute visits. Plan time for waiting, especially if other groups are ahead of you.
The temple features water spouts called Jaladwara at each corner and midpoint of its base, except on the western side, to direct rainwater away. These detailed architectural elements demonstrate how water management was thoughtfully designed into ancient structures.
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