Local people in Sraten village, Sukoharjo, Central Java, have discovered an ancient yoni, the symbol of the Hindu goddess Devi, at a public cemetery in their neighborhood.

Based on a preliminary examination, the yoni is estimated to be a remnant of a Hindu civilization between the 7th and 12th centuries.

“At first glance, it is just like a usual rock. But, there is a hollow in it,” said Wiyono Saputro, 46, who first found the ancient rock.

The rock is 110 centimeters wide at the bottom, 86 centimeters wide on top and 90 centimeters in height. People also found some ancient bricks.

Central Java Heritage Conservation Agency head Bagus Ujianto said the yoni was normally used as a border marker of the ancient kingdom during the Hindu and Buddhist eras.

“Both items, including the area of the discovery, are protected under Law No.11/2010 on Cultural Heritage,” he said.

But Bagus refuted speculations that the discovery site was the location of an ancient temple.

Community head Parmono expects the ancient items will be kept in the location and developed into a tourist attraction, especially given the fact that the discovery is located close to the ruins of the Kartasura Kingdom.

Popular

AGO hints second questioning of ex-education minister Nadiem

Green NGOs raise concern over $6b EV battery project

Labubu dolls ride China soft-power wave