Tikus Temple, An Underground Graceful Temple

Tikus Temple

The temple was buried in the ground and found in 1914. The temple site was a rat's nest. Later, local people call it Candi Tikus (Tikus Temple). Thorough restoration was done in 1984-1985. Let us trace one of the Majapahit kingdom's heritage.

Tikus Temple is located in the Dukuh Dinuk, Desa Temon, Kecamatan Trowulan, Kabupaten Mojokerto, East Java. It is about 13 kms south-east of Mojokerto. There is no written information clearly explain about when, why, and by whom the Tikus Temple was built. However, the miniature of  temple tower is expected to be built 13th - 14th century. Because the miniature tower was architecture characteristic of that period.

Historical and archaeological experts are still debating about the function. Some experts argue that the temple was a royal family bath, but some experts argue that the temple was  a shelter and distribution of water for Trowulan residents. However, from the shape the tower suggests that temple also served as a place of worship.

There were two  bricks types were used in the construction of this temple. The bottom of the temple consisted of  large arrangement of red brick and covered with smaller red bricks. In addition, the water fountain located in this temple there are two types, made ​​of brick and andesite stone. The differences of materials used suggests that Tikus Temple built in several phases. However, it is not known exactly when the second phase of construction is implemented. 

Almost all rectangular building made ​​of red brick. Interestingly, it is located 3.5 metres lower than the surface of the ground. On the top surface there is a corridor that surrounds the building. In the inside, there is a wide corridor around the edge of the pool. The entrance to the temple is on the north side, staircase leading to the bottom of the pool.

On the left and right foot of the stairs there is a rectangular pool. On the outside wall of each pond lined three lotus-shaped shower made ​​of andesite stone. In front of the stairs, there is a rectangular building. On top of this building there is a tower. The tower located in the center of the building is surrounded by 8 smaller towers in similar size. All  around the walls lined 17 showers  shaped makara and lotus flower.

        You can travel while remembering the past glory of the kingdom of Majapahit. Tikus Temple should be your family travel plan. [Travelesian]