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A commercial port and administrative capital of Central Java, more a business centre than a city for tourists, it is, however, an excellent gateway to the mountainous interior of Central Java, Yogyakarta, the Gedung Songo temples and only some 60 miles away from world-famous Borobudur Temple – one of the most impressive Buddhist temples in the world.
Discovered by Raffles himself after it had been immersed in ash from nearby Volcano Merapi, Borobudur is a huge temple literally wrapped around a hill, and 200 square metres at the base. The main temple consists of 6 levels each with a detailed parameter carved into the stone, which tells a story symbolising the struggle in life to reach Nirvana. Nirvana itself is represented at the top of the temple by several bell shaped stupas each containing a Buddha like the one above. The view at the top is equally stunning; the best time to get here is either at sunset or sunrise.
The city's historic district features well-preserved Dutch colonial architecture, including the iconic Blenduk Church and the Old Town area with its charming buildings and narrow streets. Visitors can explore the city's cultural attractions, such as the Lawang Sewu complex, known for its unique colonial-era architecture and intriguing history as a former headquarters of the Dutch East Indies Railway Company.
