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Indonesia

Goa Gajah

9th-century sanctuary with Hindu-Buddhist imagery.

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

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.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Goa Gajah

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

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Water Management Features

FountainsBathing Complexes

Religious and Ritual Structures

Temples

Artistic and Decorative Features

StatuesMonuments

Domestic and Habitation Structures

CavesCourtyards

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Indonesia
Source
Wikipedia