Goa Gajah
Indonesia

Goa Gajah

9th-century sanctuary with Hindu-Buddhist imagery.

Location

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Historical Context

About

Goa Gajah, also known as the Elephant Cave, is a significant archaeological site located near Ubud on the island of Bali, Indonesia. Originally constructed as a sanctuary in the 11th century CE, it features a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist elements, including lingam and yoni sculptures, as well as images of Ganesha and Buddhist stupas. The site is characterized by its menacing stone-carved faces, believed to ward off evil spirits, and an extensive bathing complex with fountains depicting seven holy rivers of India. Goa Gajah reflects the cultural and religious syncretism of the Bali Kingdom during the Post-Classical Period. The site was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List in 1995, highlighting its cultural and historical significance.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Visual Archive

Gallery

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FileGoa_Gajah-Bathing_Temple-Fountains_Close-up.jpeg
FileGoa_Gajah-Elephant_Cave_Entrance.jpeg
FilePintu_Masuk_Goa_Gajah.jpg
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Temporal Epochs

Historical Timeline

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11th century sanctuary construction

11th century CE

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

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Water Management Features

FountainsBathing Complexes
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Religious and Ritual Structures

Temples
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Artistic and Decorative Features

StatuesMonuments
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Domestic and Habitation Structures

CavesCourtyards
Knowledge Base

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Reference

Details

Country

Indonesia

Coordinates

-8.52° N, 115.29° E