India and Indonesia Launch Decade-Long Restoration Project for Prambanan Temple Heritage

The decade-long restoration project will focus on conserving the Pervara, or subsidiary shrines, situated in the second courtyard of the historic temple complex. The original Prambanan compound consisted of 224 subsidiary shrines arranged in four concentric rows. However, only six shrines have been restored so far, while more than 200 remain in different stages of deterioration.

The conservation programme will commence in the north-east quadrant of the complex and will integrate archaeological expertise with advanced technological methods. The restoration process will involve scientific investigations, artificial intelligence-based digital reconstruction, advanced documentation techniques, and the anastylosis method, under which original stones are carefully reassembled in their original positions.

Along with restoring the historic structures, the initiative will strengthen scientific documentation, enhance site management systems, improve drainage infrastructure, and encourage knowledge exchange and capacity building between India and Indonesia.

Constructed in the 9th century during the Mataram Kingdom, Prambanan is the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia. It has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991.

The joint conservation effort highlights the enduring cultural and civilisational connections between India and Indonesia while ensuring the preservation of one of Asia’s most significant architectural masterpieces for future generations.