The Sonobudoyo Museum

With a collection of precious artifacts and relics which would impress any archeologist, the Sonobudoyo Museum is a treasure trove of ancient wonders. Home to objects including ceramics from the Neolithic age, statues and bronze articles from the 8th century, and wayangs (shadow puppets), the museum presents a cultural display that will open your mind to the wonders of Javanese culture.

The Sonobudoyo museum was opened in 1935 and is devoted to the study and appreciation of Javanese culture. The building itself reflects traditional Javanese architecture. As you enter the museum, in the front pavilion you will see two gamelan (traditional musical instruments) sets, one carved comes from the Cirebon palace, and another from the Yogya palace.

Among the permanent collection of the museum is an impressive collection of ancient bronze bells, also from, Java, Sunda, Bali and Madura as well as an exquisitely carved teak partition from Jepara, on the north coast of Java The museum also has an extensive library with ancient books about Javanese culture.

The museum is located at the Northeast corner of Yogya’s main square, close to the Keraton.

This is only one of a number of over one hundred museums located throughout Indonesia