Penataran Temple is a historical tourist spot located in East Java, precisely in Penataran Village, Nglegok District, Blitar Regency.
Included in the Hindu temple. Built during the Kediri Kingdom. This temple was still used until the Majapahit Kingdom. In fact, this temple is the biggest temple in East Java province.
The inventor of this temple was Sir Stamford Rafles in 1815 during the British colonial period. At that time, he served as Lieutenant Governor General.
Facts and History of Penataran Temple
1. Temple Architectural Design
If you pay attention, the design of this temple is almost similar to other temples in East Java. The design is linearly arranged irregularly. Penataran Temple has 3 parts, namely the front, middle and back.
At the front, you can see 2 Dwapala statues at the door. People believe that this archa serves as a gatekeeper. Archa Dwapala is also often called Reco Petung by local residents. On the archa there is an inscription in 1242 Saka or 1320 AD.
Still at the front, there is also Bale Agung or Pendopo. This place is often used as a gathering place for traditional elders for deliberation.
Entered in the middle, there are 2 statues of Dwarapala, Dragon Temple, 6 remaining buildings and brick foundations located in the east.
Then on the back there are 9 pieces of bekar buildings whose positions are not neat, Cross inscriptions and buildings that have reliefs that tell about this temple.
2. The Biggest Temple in East Java
Having an area of 12.946 square meters, Penataran Temple is included in the largest temple in East Java. This Hindu temple is located at an altitude of 450 above sea level, precisely on the slopes of Mount Kelud.
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3. Formerly Known As Palah Temple
At first the residents knew this temple by the name Palah Temple. This name is based on the discovery of the inscription on the temple. In the inscription it is explained that the function of Palah Temple is as a place of worship.
However, slowly the name Palah temple is not well known, people often refer to Penataran Temple. This is because it is located in Penataran Village, Nglegok, Blitar.
4. Hunted by Archaeologists
The founder of Penataran Temple was King Crnga (Syrenggra). In the past, the King had the title Sri Maharaja Sri Sarweqwara Triwikramawataranindita Crengalancana Digwijayottungadewa. This temple was built in 1194 when the King ruled the Kingdom of Kediri.
The reign of the King between the years 1190-1200. This temple is used as a place of worship to avoid the danger of the eruption of Mount Kelud.
Because the shape of the building is still natural, there has been no reconstruction, so it is not surprising that many archaeologists want to do more in-depth research.
5. Place of Worship Reject Bala Mount Kelud
Mount Kelud is a volcano that was still actively erupting until 2014. In this temple, people used to often perform worship ceremonies to be protected from the dangers of volcanic eruptions.
6. The place where the Palapa Gajah Mada Oath takes place
Did you know that Palapa Oath Gajah Mada pledged in this temple? This temple was very liked by Patih Gajahmada and King Hayam Wuruk. Therefore, the Palapa oath was pronounced by Gajah Mada around the Penataran Temple.
7. Relics of the Kingdom of Kediri
The construction of the Penataran Temple was carried out during the reign of the Kediri Kingdom. This can be concluded from the information on the inscriptions found.
The inscription reveals that the temple was founded in 1200 AD. While the Kingdom of Kediri was present in 1045 AD to 1222 AD.
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Traveling to historical heritage will certainly make us love the relics of our ancestors even more. This Penataran Temple is so unique, let's keep it well maintained.
