About This Resource
Borobudur is the world's largest Buddhist temple, built in the 9th century in Java, Indonesia. The monument consists of nine stacked platforms (six square, three circular) topped by a central dome. Pilgrims climb stone stairways from level to level, walking through galleries decorated with relief panels depicting Buddhist teachings. The architectural design represents a Buddhist cosmology model and the path to enlightenment. Climbing from the base to the top symbolizes the spiritual journey from the world of desire through stages of enlightenment to nirvana. The stairs and multi-level design make the temple a three-dimensional mandala. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and major pilgrimage destination.
