World meditation center in Dieng

World meditation center in Dieng

PURWOKERTO, Central Java: The government is considering turning
Java's oldest Hindu temple complex at the Dieng plateau in
Central Java into an international center for meditation.

State Minister for Culture and Tourism I Gde Ardika said on
Wednesday that due to its historical importance, the Dieng
complex deserved to become an important center for meditation.

He said many Hindu priests meditate at the temple complex,
which is located on a 2,000 meter plateau 26 kilometers northwest
of Wonosobo in Central Java.

Ardika said the plan should be carefully considered, taking
the impact on the non-Hindu community living nearby the complex
into account.

The Dieng plateau was formed by a volcanic eruption and the
area remains geothermally active. Built around the 7th century,
the temples carry the names of Wayang heroes. The name Dieng
comes from Di Hyang which means "Abode of the Gods" -- JP