Sambisari

The Sambisari temple is a remarkable 9th-century Shivaite Hindu temple complex located in the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia. It was discovered buried approximately five meters underground, likely due to an eruption of volcanic ash from Mount Merapi. The temple complex consists of a main temple and three smaller pervara (guardian) temples, reflecting the architectural style of the period. The main temple features intricate carvings and niches containing statues of Hindu deities such as Durga, Ganesha, and Agastya, along with a central yoni and lingga, underscoring its religious significance. The discovery of the temple has spurred interest in further archaeological exploration in the region, suggesting the possibility of more ancient structures lying beneath the volcanic ash.