Candi Belahan, Hindu temple in Gempol, Indonesia.
Candi Belahan is a red brick Hindu temple featuring a sacred pond and intricate carvings of Hindu deities across its walls. The structure incorporates a central water basin as part of its architectural design.
The temple was commissioned around 1009 CE by King Airlangga of the Kahuripan Kingdom as part of a network of royal monuments. These constructions shaped the religious landscape of medieval Java.
The temple displays stone carvings of goddesses Lakshmi and Sri, reflecting Hindu influences in ancient Javanese architecture and religious practice. These representations remain visible expressions of the spiritual beliefs that shaped this place.
The temple remains open to visitors year-round and sees increased attendance during significant dates in the Javanese calendar such as Thursday nights before Friday Legi. Plan your visit in early morning hours when crowds are lighter and lighting conditions are better.
The temple is also known as Candi Sumber Tetek, a name referencing water that flows from carved figures and symbolizes a connection to goddess Lakshmi. This rare reference to the mythological origin of water gives the site a distinctive character.
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