Archaeoastronomy of the Sun path at Borobudur

TL;DR

This paper explores the solar alignment of Borobudur and its satellite temples, suggesting an intentional design that reflects solar movements and ritual procession pathways, revealing astronomical and cultural significance.

Contribution

It presents evidence that Borobudur and nearby temples are aligned with solar zenith passages, indicating intentional astronomical and ritual planning.

Findings

The temples align with sunset points during zenith passages.

The alignment likely served ritual and ceremonial purposes.

The orientation mimics the sun's path in the sky.

Abstract

The world famous Javanese temple of Borobudur is located at the westernmost end of a straight line which includes two satellite temples, Mendut and Pawon. Originally, the three buildings were probably connected by a processional path running along this line. It is shown here that the alignment points, at the horizon, where the sun sets in the days of the zenith passages. This orientation is likely intentional and related to a ritual procession which connected the three temples, mimicking the path of the sun in the sky.