Uncovering the Myth of Ratu Boko Palace: Legend or Historical Fact?
As we know, historical sites are always steeped in myths circulating in society, and Ratu Boko Palace is no exception. Still related to the myths surrounding Prambanan Temple , one of the most popular myths about Ratu Boko Palace is, "Couples who visit this site will break up."
Furthermore, some say that Ratu Boko Palace is the residence of Roro Jonggrang. Is this just a myth or historical fact? Let's find out more in the article below.
The Myth of Ratu Boko Palace Circulating in Society
As a historical site over a thousand years old, Ratu Boko Palace has several myths that also serve as a draw for visitors. Some of the most frequently heard myths by tourists and locals include:
1. The House of Prabu Boko (Roro Jonggrang's Father)
The Ratu Boko site is believed to be the palace of King Boko, the father of Roro Jonggrang, known as a man-eating giant. His cruel nature caused unrest among the people. This prompted rulers of other kingdoms to send their son, Bandung Bondowoso, to defeat King Boko in battle. The battle lasted ten days, and King Boko was ultimately defeated.
However, this story is merely a legend. Historically, Ratu Boko Palace is a religious complex that, according to the Abhayagiri Inscription, was built by Rakai Panangkaran.
Even so, the legend of Prabu Boko still resonates today and has become a special attraction for tourists who want to see what the house of Roro Jonggrang, who was cursed to become a stone by Bandung Bondowoso for rejecting his love, looks like.
2. Women who come alone have difficulty finding a partner.
Another myth that is no less popular regarding Ratu Boko Palace is that unmarried women who come alone will have difficulty finding a partner. Wah, have you ever heard this myth or even believe it?
Don't worry, your visit to Ratu Boko Palace has nothing to do with finding your soulmate. This myth stems from the legend of the tragic love story between Roro Jonggrang and Bandung Bondowoso.
3. Visiting Couples Will Break Up
Not only unmarried women, another myth surrounding Ratu Boko Palace also targets couples. It's said that couples who visit Ratu Boko Palace will eventually break up. Is this true?
In fact, testimonials from several visitors to Ratu Boko Palace prove otherwise. Several visitors, commenting on social media, reported that their relationships with their partners were going well, even leading to marriage, as you can see below:
In fact , many couples choose Ratu Boko Palace as their pre-wedding photoshoot location . If you're interested, Injourney Destination Management offers a Boko Pre-wedding package that can make it easier for you to create the perfect memory with your partner, starting at Rp 150.000 for a 4-hour session.
4. Washing your face with the water source at Ratu Boko will keep you youthful
Ratu Boko Palace possesses an "eternal" well known as Amerta Mantana, meaning holy water imbued with a mantra. Because it's known as holy water, some people attribute its ability to restore youth. However, this property has no scientific basis and is considered a myth about Ratu Boko Palace.
However, that doesn't mean Keraton Ratu Boko can't keep you looking young . So , what do you think ? Offering beautiful natural panoramas, this site is one of the healing spots in Yogyakarta you can visit if you're feeling stressed or just want to refresh your mind. If you manage your stress, then you have the potential to age less quickly, right?
5. Ratu Boko Palace is the Palace of Queen Bilqis
This myth is quite unique. Some say that Ratu Boko Palace was the palace of Queen Bilqis, queen of the Sabaean Kingdom in ancient Yemen, who later became known as the wife of the Prophet Solomon. However, based on historical timelines alone, there's no connection.
Prophet Solomon, known historically as King Solomon, died around the 10th century BC, while the Ratu Boko site was not built until the 8th century AD. The site's construction is also recorded in one of Ratu Boko's inscriptions , the Abhayagiri Wihara.
Dive Deeper into the Story of Ratu Boko Palace with an Experienced Guide
Every structure in Ratu Boko Palace holds a magical story from the past that will captivate you upon hearing it. You'll not only be walking around to see traces of past civilizations, but you'll also gain a deeper understanding of each step you take during your visit by understanding the stories behind them.
To get one, you can book a Boko Guide before your visit. With Boko Guide, a professional guide at Ratu Boko Palace, you'll explore the traces of the past, from the gates, pavilions, and pavilions to the meanings of each stone relief.
If you'd like to order a Boko Guide, please contact us at +62816670504 . This way , you'll not only get aesthetically pleasing photos, but you'll also gain fascinating historical knowledge in a fun way!
Secure your tickets to Ratu Boko Palace now by booking online through Injourney Destination Management's official ticketing page. Come and explore the traces of a past civilization in an exciting way, only at Ratu Boko Palace. See you!
