Sendangsono : A Place of Tranquility and Catholic Pilgrimage

Sendangsono : A Place of Tranquility and Catholic Pilgrimage

Introduction

Gua Maria Sendangsono, located in Banjaroya Tourism Village, Kalibawang, Kulon Progo, DI. Yogyakarta, Indonesia, is a cool and peaceful pilgrimage site for Catholics. This holy site was originally a resting place for Buddhist monks and later transformed into an important pilgrimage destination for Catholics. Its location on the slopes of the Menoreh Hills makes it cool and peaceful for anyone who visits it.

The Origins of Sendangsono

The history of Sendangsono dates back to ancient times, when it was a peaceful retreat for Buddhist monks. Its pristine natural surroundings, with lush greenery, clear springs, and towering cliffs, provided an ideal setting for meditation and contemplation. The serenity of its location made it a perfect place for spiritual seekers.

The name Sendangsono is taken from the term Sendang which means spring and Sono is the name of a type of tree. Initially, Sendangsono was a stopping place (resting for a while) for pedestrians from Borobudur District, Magelang to Boro District (Kulon Progo), or vice versa. The place was often visited because of the presence of a spring that emerged between two sono trees. The cool and comfortable atmosphere makes this place also often used for meditation by a number of Buddhist monks in order to purify and isolate themselves. Spiritualistic values ​​emerged and strengthened along with the belief based on a legend that the place was also inhabited by Dewi Lantamsari and her only son, Den Baguse Samija.

Development as a Catholic Pilgrimage Site

On May 20, 1904, 173 local residents were baptized by Father Van Lith using the well water. According to Catholic belief, water that has been used for baptism (blessed) will become holy water. In 1923, Father JB. Prennthaler SJ proposed that Sendangsono become a holy place by building a cave where the Virgin Mary lives. On December 8, 1929, the Sendangsono Maria Cave was blessed. Since then, this place has become a pilgrimage site for Catholics until now.

The transformation of Sendangsono from a Buddhist shrine to a Catholic pilgrimage site can be attributed to the tireless efforts of YB, Mangunwijaya. He recognized the spiritual potential of the site and saw an opportunity to provide a space for Catholic worship and reflection.

In 1969, Father Mangunwijaya participated in the construction of Sendangsono. After he passed away, Sendangsono was interpreted with the understanding of Wastu Citra initiated by Father Yusuf Bilyarta Mangunwijaya. The architecture of Sendangsono is similar to the style of Javanese houses, consisting of a yard, front, middle, and back houses which each have their own functions. Sendangsono is divided into three parts, namely the entrance, yard, and sacred area. The cross stations are divided into two, long and short. The cross symbolizes the journey of human life in achieving happiness. It is said that in this construction, Father Mangun deliberately used walking images and used a lot of local natural materials. This was done deliberately so that this construction would not damage and could be in harmony with nature. In addition, it can also provide space for the surrounding community to participate in designing existing buildings, which is done through dialogue with the workers involved in the construction. The concept of empowerment is also carried out with unhurried construction, so that workers who are part of the surrounding community can participate in the construction for longer.

Romo Mangun’s expertise in designing has led Sendangsono to win awards from the Indonesian Architects Association and the Aga Khan Awards, which are architectural awards aimed at marking and appreciating architectural concepts that successfully accommodate the needs and aspirations of the community, in the contemporary design path in the fields of housing, environmental development and improvement, restoration, area conservation, including landscape architecture, and environmental development.

Legend of Den Baguse Samija and Dewi Lantamsari:

The legend of Den Baguse Samija and Dewi Lantamsari adds a mystical dimension to the history of Sendangsono. According to local folklore, it is said that according to legend, there are two creatures who rule the area, namely a mother named Dewi Lantamsari, and her only child, Den Baguse Samija.

In May and October this place is crowded with pilgrims from all over Indonesia. In addition to praying, generally the pilgrims take holy water from the springs there. They believe that the water can cure various diseases.

For pilgrims who want to visit the Sendangsono Maria Cave and need supporting facilities, the Banjaroya Tourism Village management is ready to help with your various needs, starting from transportation/pick-up, accommodation and various other needs.