S C U L P T U R E O F I N D O N E S I A
Buddhism came to Indonesia in the 2nd century, and is closely related to the history of Hinduism. The populous accepted both Hinduism and Buddhism equally, and many temples were places where both religions were observed.
Probably the most famous Buddhist monument in Indonesia is Borobodur, the largest Buddhist temple in the world, which was built in the 9th century. Its form is like a three dimensional mandala, with four gates aligned with the cardinal directions. While it is rectangular on the bottom, symbolizing lower levels of consciousness, and the upper level of the temple is round, symbolizing the absolute and enlightened mind.
Those visiting can circumambulate each level and view friezes depicting representations of ascending levels of consciousness.
