The Shapes of Temples

The changes on the shapes of temples. During the 10th century A.D., there was a moving of cultural center from Central Java to East Java. Because of this movement, the shapes of cultural products like temples also changed.

Brahu Temple at Trowulan area, East Java. Brahu Temple is believed as a place to keep the ashes of the dead body of Prabu

Brawijaya’s from Majapahit. This temple was built through some phases like the temples in Central Java, but it was made from bricks.

Central Java temples.

• Temples were built before 1000 A.D.

• The shape of the buildings are large.

• The top of the temple is in the shape of gem (ratna) or stupa.

• The reliefs are protruding and the paintings are naturalistic.

• Most of the temples face east direction.

• Most of the temples were made from andesite (natural) stone.

East Java temples.

• Temples were built after 1000 A.D.

• The shape of the buildings are slim.

• The top of the temple forms a cube.

• The reliefs only slightly protrude and the paintings show sign/symbolism like wayang (Javanese puppet made from leather).

• Most of the temples face west direction.

• Most of the temples were made from bricks.

Check out my other guide on The Ornaments of Temples
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