candi

Glossaries

Term	Definition
candi	A candi is a stone shrine or temple characteristic of Hindu-Buddhist architecture in Indonesia, particularly on the island of Java. These structures were built between the 8th and 15th centuries and serve as places of worship dedicated to various deities. The term candi refers to a type of stone shrine or temple that is particularly prevalent in the Hindu-Buddhist architecture of Indonesia, especially on the island of Java. The candi were primarily constructed between the 8th and 15th centuries, during periods of Hindu and Buddhist rule. A candi is typically dedicated to a specific deity within the Hindu or Buddhist pantheon and is often richly decorated with bas-relief carvings depicting mythological, religious, or historical scenes. Candi structures can vary in size and complexity, ranging from simple standalone shrines to monumental complexes like those found at Prambanan or Borobudur. Architecturally, a candi is often built on an elevated platform, with a tiered roof that culminates in a stupa or pinnacle. The materials used for construction primarily include volcanic stone, due to its local availability and durability. The role of candi was not only religious but also symbolic and political. They were often erected to celebrate the power of ruling dynasties or to mark sacred sites. Today, candi are significant historical sites, attracting scholars, tourists, and pilgrims from around the world.

Term

Definition

A candi is a stone shrine or temple characteristic of Hindu-Buddhist architecture in Indonesia, particularly on the island of Java. These structures were built between the 8th and 15th centuries and serve as places of worship dedicated to various deities.

The term candi refers to a type of stone shrine or temple that is particularly prevalent in the Hindu-Buddhist architecture of Indonesia, especially on the island of Java. The candi were primarily constructed between the 8th and 15th centuries, during periods of Hindu and Buddhist rule. A candi is typically dedicated to a specific deity within the Hindu or Buddhist pantheon and is often richly decorated with bas-relief carvings depicting mythological, religious, or historical scenes.

Candi structures can vary in size and complexity, ranging from simple standalone shrines to monumental complexes like those found at Prambanan or Borobudur. Architecturally, a candi is often built on an elevated platform, with a tiered roof that culminates in a stupa or pinnacle. The materials used for construction primarily include volcanic stone, due to its local availability and durability.

The role of candi was not only religious but also symbolic and political. They were often erected to celebrate the power of ruling dynasties or to mark sacred sites. Today, candi are significant historical sites, attracting scholars, tourists, and pilgrims from around the world.