Magelang, C. Java (ANTARA) – Indonesia has resumed the second phase of the restoration of Mendut Temple, focusing on repairing roof leaks and bulging walls caused by trapped water to prevent further structural deterioration of the centuries-old Buddhist monument.
Riris Purbasari, Head of the 10th Regional Cultural Preservation Office, said in Magelang, Central Java, on Friday that the work follows the first restoration phase earlier.
During the initial phase, conservation workers installed scaffolding and assessed the temple’s roof structure to prepare for the next stage.
Riris said the team found that the roof had been coated with cement during an earlier restoration, allowing water to seep into the temple chamber. The cement will be carefully removed to protect the original stones.
Most of the temple’s original stones remain in good condition and have been documented. Conservators also discovered several small stupas believed to have been part of the temple’s original roof structure.
She said the restoration prioritizes two issues: stopping water leaks and restoring the bulging walls to their original alignment.
Without immediate repairs, water could continue to penetrate the structure, increasing humidity and accelerating deterioration of the temple’s stonework, she said.
The temple complex will remain temporarily closed to the public during restoration to ensure visitor safety and provide adequate working space for conservation teams.
The project is expected to take about one year, although the team aims to complete sufficient work for Mendut Temple to host next year’s Vesak celebrations.
To accelerate progress, between 30 and 40 workers, including conservation specialists and local laborers, will work in rotating shifts.
Riris said she hopes the restoration proceeds smoothly so Mendut Temple can be fully preserved and safely reopened for the public and Buddhist worshippers during future Vesak celebrations.
Related news: Conservation on Prambanan creating world-class destination
Translator: Heru S, Rahmad Nasution
Editor: Bayu Prasetyo
Copyright © ANTARA 2026