The Keraton or literally palace compound of the Sultan, comprises an area of over 14.000 square meters, enclosed by stick stone walls. Lying at the Southern end of the centre of the city, the Keraton was founded by Sultan Hamengku Buwono I in 1755 and reached completion in 1792.
The main buildings of the compound are a compendium of traditional Javanese style and have changed little since their initial completion. Facing a large square of grass called the Alun-Alun, the main gateway of the Keratonis guarded by two silver painted guardians the inner most group of building called “Proboyekso” is still the private domain of the Sultan and his family and is also the house where the revered “Pusaka” or sacred heirlooms are kept. In the old days “Sitinggil” and “Pagelaran”, two pavillions facing the Alun-Alun North Square, once were lent to the Gadjah Mada University. The splendid reception hall known as “Bangsal Kencono” or Golden Pavillion is the crowning glory of the Keraton and is used only for state functions and family ceremonies.
On the Southern part of the Keraton complex, facing the Magangan court yard is an ancient clock and two venerable retainers sitting cross-legged as though sipping tea. The ancient clock still keeps time but no longer chimes. To help the clock with its task, the two gentlemen dutifully sound a small gong at the appropriate times. A further extension of the Keraton is the recently restored “Pendopo”, a country retreat built in 1890 by Sultan Hamengku Buwono VIII and now the luxurious Grand Hotel Ambarrukmo Palace.
Pictures :
North Alun-Alun, Yogyakarta
Sitinggil, Yogyakarta
Bangsal Kencono, Yogyakarta
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