Ornaments on Candi Bajang Ratu in The Trowulan Culture Conservation Site

Abstract

The aim of this study is to explore the reasons why candi were built, based on the ornamental and decorative elements found on those in the Trowulan cultural heritage area. This research uses field research techniques to observe the detail on cultural heritage objects, in the form of the ornamental and decorative items carved on or attached to the object. Scientific methods such as anthropology and history are also employed. The results of the study found that each temple (candi) has different functions according to the carvings and other decorative elements attached to the structure. A previous expert opinion states that Candi Bajang Ratu is a burial place; the results of investigations into the ornamental and decorative elements on this candi indicate that Candi Bajang Ratu was built out of respect to Raja (King) Jayanegara, a figure from the Majapahit kingdom.