Borobudur, one of the world's greatest Buddhist monuments, stands in one of the most impressive beautiful natural settings: a fertile volcano-rimmed valley on the island of Java in Indonesia. Borobudur is an integral part of the sense of identity for the whole population of Indonesia, and is increasingly prominent in the world's conception of what it means to be human. This monument has become the most visited tourist attraction in Indonesia, welcoming thousands of visitors and pilgrims from all over the world every year. Amid the rapid flow of information and technology in this 21st century, this monument still emanates a unique combination of charm and mystery. This book provides an explanation integrating the monument's architectural and sculptural elements and their hidden meaning found in no previous books. It combines this discussion of the past with depictions revealing the lives of the people who built it and those who live in harmony with it today. Borobodur's proximity to dynamic surroundings, involving violent natural occurrences, is also a reality and must be depicted. The wide variety of local and international artists of the last two centuries who have drawn inspiration from this UNESCO World Heritage Site are also commemorated through their paintings, sketches, and drawings also found in this book.

Due to the initiative of PT. Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur, Prambanan & Ratu Boko, this book was written by scholars who have dedicated many years to studying this monument. Their texts are combined with beautiful photographs, including historic illustrations from various international institutions. All these contents invite readers to see Borobudur in its majestic, mysterious, and magnificent perspectives. This volume will bring continuous pleasure to those who treasure the greatest historical monuments in the world, and will be a perfect addition to libraries in homes, offices, or public institutions.