Source: http://kraton.yogya.indo.net.id/
WELCOME TO YOGYAKARTA
Yoyakarta, one of the three special Districts of Indonesia (the two others being the capital city of Jakarta and Aceh in North Sumatera) is one of the foremost cultural centers of Java. Located at the foot of the active volcano Merapi, the fertile plain of Yogyakarta was in the 16th and 17th centuries the seat of the mighty Javanese empire of Mataram, from which present-day Yogyakarta has inherited the best of traditions. The city it self has a special, gentle charm which seldom falls to captivate the visitor. The Sultan’s Palace was built in 1755 after the division of Mataram and the establishment of the sultanate of Yogyakarta. It is a vast complex of courtyards, halls and pavilions in Javanese traditional architecture. Construction of the innermost group of courtyards and pavilions was competed in 1755, which corresponds with the Javanese year 1682. This date is portrayed on the lintel of the entrance gate by two snakes facing opposite directions with their tails entwined. Nowadays, the Kraton is no longer the seat of power but it still houses - among other things - the royal heirlooms and arms, the royal collection of magnificent bejeweled leather wayang puppets, the royal carriages and many ornaments of European and Indonesia origin, many of them gifts from royal guest in the past. Known as Taman Sari or Pleasure Garden, the Water Castle derives its name from the most which once surrounded it. Built in 1758 by Sultan Hamengku Buwono I just little to the west of the Kraton, this pleasure garden and castle is at present no more then an intriguing collection or ruins, poocis, archas and underground passages enclosed by massive walls. The Water Castle is located in the older part of the city and within easy walking distance from the bird market. A collection of batik workshops line the avenue leading to the pleasure garden’s entrance gate. Imogiri is the official cemetery of the royal families of Yogyakarta and Surakarta. The village attracts many people because of its large group of ancient graves. The royal and princely graveyards are located on a hilltop and a total of 345 stone steps lead up to the graves. Imogiri is about 17 km, southeast of Yogyakarta and is easily accessible by bus. The tombs were built within three main courtyards. Entry into the smaller courtyards housing the tombs of the prices is allowed, but only on Monday and Friday and formal Javanese costume has to be worn, which, however, may be hired on the spot at a modest fee.