Symbolic meanings in the architecture of Keraton Yogyakarta a transformation study

Abstract

Yogyakarta is one of provinces in Indonesia with special district status. The city planning use concept catur gatra tunggal (four element in unity) that covers palace, square, mosque, and market. As one of the top artifacts of Javanese culture, Keraton Yogyakarta which was established by Prince Mangkubumi in 1756 has experienced a transformation of function and appearance. To comprehend the embodied messages, it is substantial to interpret the meaning of the symbols existing in Keraton Yogyakarta. This study reviews the transformation of meaning taking place at Keraton Yogyakarta. This study applies the method of observation, examination, assessment to the object of study, interview with informants, and study of Javanese manuscripts: Serat Salokapatra. The result of this study indicates that there are some significant transformations of meaning in the architecture of Keraton Yogyakarta between the reign of HB I-HB VIII (1755-1939) and the reign of HB IX - HB X (1940 - 2018).