Trenggalek Government Identifies Ancient Brick Structure in Kamulan
The Trenggalek Regency Government, East Java, is following up on the discovery of an ancient brick structure suspected to be a cultural heritage object (ODCB) in the Sendang Kamulyan area, Kamulan Village, Durenan District. This area was previously known as the site where the Kamulan Inscription was found, a crucial historical source for establishing the anniversary date of Trenggalek Regency.
Acting Head of the Trenggalek Tourism and Culture Office, Toni Widianto, stated on Monday that the find was based on reports from the community and village government, which were then followed up with a field inspection alongside history enthusiasts.
“Today we are conducting an initial identification of the structure found beneath a pool of water. Subsequently, the results of the data collection and measurements will be coordinated with the Trowulan Cultural Heritage Preservation Centre for further study,” Toni said during the site inspection.
According to him, the identification process involves documenting the structure, measuring its dimensions, and gathering information from local residents to complete the supporting data. This step is part of efforts to preserve potential cultural heritage within the Trenggalek Regency.
Harmaji, a member of the Trenggalek History Activists (Pesat) who assisted in the identification, explained that the preliminary findings point to a building fragment possibly related to an ancient water management system.
“The initial assumption is that it is still connected to water management construction, possibly a channel, control basin, or interconnected reservoir system. However, confirming its function and periodisation still requires further study by the relevant authorities,” he said.
In addition to the brick structure, the team also found indications of artificial water channels connecting several parts of the building at the site. The Kamulan area itself is known as a historic region in Trenggalek. The previously discovered Kamulan Inscription, issued during the reign of King Kertajaya of the Kediri Kingdom and dated 31 August 1194 AD or 1116 Saka, serves as the basis for determining Trenggalek Regency’s anniversary.
The Trenggalek Regency Government hopes that the results of the identification and further studies will enrich the region’s historical data and serve as a foundation for preserving cultural sites that hold significant value for education, research, and the development of historical tourism.