Tamansari, the unique of the past
By wisnu broto
10 June 2008
Tamansari in the past time was a recreation area for the King of Yogyakarta and his family. Built in 1758 by a Portuguese architect in the first King Sultan Hamengkubuwono I period, the complex of Tamansari was influenced by European aquatic construction adorned with Javanese ornaments and Chinese buildings. The Tamansari complex consist of :
1. The Bathing pool complex " Umbul Binangun".
This place consist of three pools adorned with some big flowerpots, formerly was a place where the royal family relaxed. One pool is separated from the others by two-story building with windows overlooking the pools. According to the local stories, The Sultan would select from among his wives and concubines by tossing a flower to the chosen one from the upper window. After tossing a flower, Sultan will ask her to have a passionate time privately into the single pool.
2. Pulo Kenongo (Kenongo island) complex.
This part compounds of some buildings just like a palace, Sumur Gemuling Mosque, and underground tunnels. The palace consist of living rooms, bedrooms, hall to perform classical dance, and room to make batik clothes. The roof is a bird's eye view of Yogyakarta city and mount Merapi in the north.
There is also an underground tunnel leads to Sumur Gemuling Mosque, a mysterious underground mosque. Sumur Gemuling is a building constructed a two-story circular well mosque which some rooms formerly used as praying rooms.
Tamansari is an interesting place to visit which can be reach by a ten minutes walk from Keraton, King Yogyakarta's palace. By visiting Tamansari, you will find an unique atmosphere of the past.
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