Candi Ijo

Candi Ijo is a 9th-century Hindu temple compound located on Gumuk Ijo hill in Sambirejo, Prambanan, Sleman, Yogyakarta, at about 410 meters above sea level. It is the highest temple in Yogyakarta and consists of terraced courtyards with a main temple dedicated to Shiva. Notable for its panoramic views over Yogyakarta and Prambanan plain, well-preserved linga-yoni, statues, and sunset vistas.

Visitors can expect a terraced hilltop Hindu temple complex with 17 stepped terraces leading to the main courtyard. The site includes a main temple with linga-yoni, three perwara temples, and remains of other structures, decorated with kala-makara carvings and statues of deities. The setting offers open agricultural landscapes and views of Prambanan, Ratu Boko, and Mount Merapi on clear days. Areas to explore include the terraces, main temple courtyard, and viewing areas for photography and sunset.

Built in the 9th century during the Medang (Mataram Kuno) Kingdom period, Candi Ijo is a Hindu temple complex dedicated primarily to Shiva. Constructed on terraced hill slopes reflecting Hindu cosmology, it was built between 850-900 CE. The complex includes inscriptions and architectural elements indicating Shaivite Hindu worship and was restored by the archaeological authorities in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

Represents Hindu heritage of Central Java and the Mataram Kingdom era. The temple's linga-yoni, deity statues, and orientation reflect Shaivite Hindu religious practices. It is part of the Prambanan temple cluster cultural landscape and is valued as an archaeological and educational site illustrating Javanese temple architecture and hilltop temple planning.