Yogja has two 1000+ year old temples: Borobudur is the largest Buddhist temple in the world (at times, it has been listed as one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world). It was built in the 7th century AD and people from around the world journey here to see it. In the picture above, we are at one of the hundreds of buddhas found around the temple. Notice the slight outline of the volcano in the background. Java is full of volcanos, many of them active.
The other famous temple is Prambanan, a Hindu temple from the 8th century. While not nearly as massive or impressive, it is still an important stop in Yogja. At this temple we also saw a ballet of the Ramayana (ancient Hindu story).
Our guide at Prambanan.
Yogja still allows becak's (pronounced Bey-chucks), or pedicabs (many cities don't allow them any longer because they cause more congestion). We had fun being cycled around the city. Some places we saw:- Sultan's palace (Yogja is actually a sultanate, or ruled by a Sultan)
- bird market- Many birds and exotic animals for sale (most illegally unfortunately)
- Taman Sari- ancient palace
- Malioboro- Shopping avenue full of local handicrafts
We also went to a hand made batik workshop. While we spent the hour there talking, laughing and listening to descriptions of how it is made, the woman in the foreground quietly worked and hardly noticed us. Batik is traditionally done by women before they marry and is supposed to teach patience, which will assist in marriage. I think she is ready.
Election good and bad news:
Election good and bad news:
- good news- Elections went smoothly and the ruling party won decidedly.
- bad news- There were many voting irregularities which have led to simmering problems such as negative press articles and threats of boycott's in the July 8 Presidential elections.
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