Yogyakarta - General Information About Yogyakarta

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:: Geography
Yogyakarta is the peaceful city where time seems to past more slowly. It lies on the southern part of Central Java Province on the Island of Java. This area was the Kingdom of Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat and ruled by a Sultan. After the independence of Indonesia in 1945, Yogyakarta become a province under the Republic of Indonesia. The Sultan and the royal family, however, still be honoured by the people of Yogyakarta as their King and the Kingdom tradition is still very much alive.
Today, Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X is the Governor of the Province of Yogyakarta, and the King to his people.

:: Population
The main religion of the people of Yogyakarta is Islam, which arrived in Java during the 15th century. Despite of Islam as the main religion, the people of Yogyakarta still have strong spiritual roots of Javanese Culture. Islam in Yogyakarta is a unique blend of Islam and ancient Javanese religion. Traditional ceremonies with offerings and processions still take part in everyday life of the people. Glorious processions of Keraton Soldiers and Abdi Dalem can be seen on Islamic Holidays, especially on 1 Suro (Javanese New Year).

:: Culture
Yogya or Jogja with its history and Javanese Culture have been a source of inspiration to many artists through the centuries. The proximity of the world famous heritage listed temples of Borobudur and Prambanan, as well as numerous other temples dating back to the 10th century, has brought thousands of visitors to the city.

The active Merapi Mountain and popular beaches in the southern area can be reached in just over an hour and make a good one-day excursion. Not to forget Malioboro Street, a shopping paradise for local handicrafts, close to the Sultan's Palace, the Keraton. The ancient city of Kota Gede is also an interesting place to visit, with its original Javanese Buildings and houses.

:: Saphir Yogya
Hotel Saphir Yogyakarta is conveniently located on one of Yogyakarta's main throughfares. Situated midway between the airport and the main city center, only a 10 minutes drive to both locations. Malioboro Street and Sultan Palace Keraton Yogyakarta are 10 minutes away, the hotel provides complimentary shuttle bus service on request to these popular area.

:: Places of Interest

Merapi mountain and Kaliurang.
Borobudur and Mendut Temple
Prambanan, Sewu, and Kalasan Temple
Malioboro Street (Handicraft Shopping)
Kota Gede (Ancient City & Silversmiths)
Imogiri Royal Cemetery
Bird Market
Sultan Palace Kraton Yogyakarta
Taman Sari Water Castle
Parangtritis Beach

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