![IMG_5872.JPG](https://ipfs.busy.org/ipfs/QmZ9RC5T9ExsyY8Zq2QV3nTnUbL3mHCZ1MsKShM3BnBsnU)




The Keraton or the Palace of Yogyakarta is a splendid example of traditional Javanese architecture.  This complex of pavilions was built on ancient beliefs and every feature from the courtyards to the trees have special meaning and symbolic for the ethnic Javanese people.


![IMG_5873.JPG](https://ipfs.busy.org/ipfs/QmXTxuXzaUhWvbFrcdocHm4eoYXVHUoA3edCmmDguJiaaf)





A green square fronting the palace, has a large banyan tree in its center, while behind the palace is another similar square. When a sultan dies, the cortege leaves by the southern gate on its way to the cemetery of kings at Imogiri. This palace was designed to be more than just a royal residence. It was built to be a focal point of the Sultan’s entire kingdom. 



![IMG_5875.JPG](https://ipfs.busy.org/ipfs/QmfDt9GKUxQAK6WBR5JBwepuiaJx4K75w9DLQ8MFRYpT1c)




The Keraton is built facing directly north towards the majestic Mt. Merapi with to its south backing the Indian Ocean which is believed to be the abode of the Queen of the South Seas and the mystical consort of the Sultan.



![IMG_5694.JPG](https://ipfs.busy.org/ipfs/QmTgrXZQcK39p8LchyeJsEeiNQ5apW7STqhUwvj6NfHihP)




Today, the Keraton is a piece of living history and tradition. It continues to be used, both as a home of the Sultan as well as for other important ceremonial and cultural functions of the Yogyakarta court.  The complex holds performances of puppetry, gamelan or cultural dances everyday for the paying public.


![IMG_5693.JPG](https://ipfs.busy.org/ipfs/QmXuNY3u7ezXyyZjNc8hHvosJmYUBVNY9t9gXNgQcstzPe)






Our guide informed us that after the palace is closed to visitors, women in traditional costume would sprinkle water and flowers on the pillars, lighting incense to “cleanse” the keraton from evil spirits.


 ![IMG_5874.JPG](https://ipfs.busy.org/ipfs/QmfBaKbCHWmyMEi3x5WX3z3aWkiqwqZ6tmUZ83qvdNt57V)