Sugeng Rawuh!
Central Java opens its doors to visitors eager to explore its uniqueness and beauty. This region is home to majestic temples such as Borobudur, Prambanan, and Mendut—grand monuments that celebrate the flourishing Hindu-Buddhist heritage of their time. Yet, Central Java is also rich with Islamic legacy, marked by the presence of historic mosques, including the revered Demak Grand Mosque, which is believed to have been built by the wise hands of the Wali Songo. Their spiritual legacy lives on, becoming guardians of history for generations to come.
The Central Java Pavilion, also known as the Padepokan Jawa Tengah, invites every visitor at TMII to explore and carry home the wisdom of Javanese heritage. In each intricate detail, the noble values and philosophical depth of Javanese society are beautifully embedded, offering meaningful insights to every soul it greets.
At the entrance, visitors will be welcomed by a replica of the grand Pendhapa of the Mangkunegaran Palace in Surakarta, featuring a traditional shadow puppet stage known as Ringgit. This grand hall, called Joglo Trajumas, is supported by a striking roof design, held up by four Sokoguru (main pillars), twelve Soko Penanggap, and twenty Soko Penitih. Every structural element creates a distinctive and graceful elegance that defines Central Java.
Other traditional houses featured include the Joglo Tajuk Mangkurat, Joglo Pengrawit, Kudus House, and the uniquely shaped Doro Gepak design. The pavilion’s charm is further elevated by an open-air stage set against a hillside backdrop, accompanied by structures adorned with makara motifs.
One of the highlights of the pavilion is a stone structure made from black lava rock, inscribed with the phrase Mutiara Ojo Dumeh, meaning “don’t be arrogant.” The Javanese teaching of Ojo Dumeh encourages self-restraint and humility—a reminder that even in success, one should remain grounded and refrain from boastfulness.
DID YOU KNOW?
Salatiga, a city in Central Java, is considered one of the oldest cities in the Indonesian archipelago. This information is confirmed on the official city website and supported by various sources. The Plumpungan Inscription, which records the city’s existence dating back to 750 AD, stands as evidence. The inscription is located in Plumpungan Hamlet, Kauman Kidul Village, Sidorejo District.
