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 Sewu Temples

 

Built in 8th century, Sewu Temple is the largest Buddhist temple after Borobudur. It is interesting to note that these temples are located very near Prambanan compound, the Hindu temple. This condition reflects competition between Buddha and Hindu follower during that time. The legend says that once there was a very beautiful princess named Roro Jonggrang. Her father was killed in a battle against Bandung Bondowoso, a prince of a neighboring kingdom. Bondowoso abducted Roro Jonggrang and asked her to marry him. Roro Jonggrang agreed with one condition, Bondowoso must build 1000 temples for her before sunrise. Bondowoso and his invisible magical army had finished building 999 temples when sunrise suddenly appeared prematurely. Out of anger, Bondowoso cursed Roro Jongrang to become a statue. Roro Jongrang statue is kept today in one of the Prambanan Temple.