A rereading of the Majapahit royal palace architecture: Spatial patterns, orientation, and position

Rahadhian Prajudi Herwindo; Enrico Nirwan Histanto; Djaliati Sri Nugrahani; Rizki Susantini; Iwan Sudradjat; Sutrisno Moertijoso; Handy Nugraha Witama; Joshua Jordan; Sheridan Tedjasurja

doi:10.30822/arteks.v11i3.5381

Authors

Rahadhian Prajudi Herwindo Parahyangan Catholic University
Enrico Nirwan Histanto Parahyangan Catholic University
Djaliati Sri Nugrahani Universitas Gadjah Mada
Rizki Susantini Balai Pelestarian Kebudayaan Jawa Timur , East Java Cultural Heritage Preservation Office
Iwan Sudradjat Parahyangan Catholic University
Sutrisno Moertijoso Indonesian Institute of Architectural History
Handy Nugraha Witama Parahyangan Catholic University
Joshua Jordan Parahyangan Catholic University
Sheridan Tedjasurja Parahyangan Catholic University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30822/arteks.v11i3.5381

Keywords:

Grid-Patern, Kedaton Village, Majapahit, Mount-Orientation, Palace

Abstract

The location of the Majapahit Palace, the royal seat of Majapahit, one of the most prominent kingdoms in Indonesia and a major political power in Asia, remains uncertain. To this day, diverse interpretations continue to emerge regarding its precise location. This study aims to investigate the spatial position and architectural form of the Majapahit Palace. Previous research, ranging from the pre-independence period to the present, provides the primary foundation for this investigation. The study employs an interpretative approach grounded in historical research, textual analysis, and archaeological evidence, utilizing overlay map analysis and comparative studies with Balinese palaces as well as early Islamic-period palaces in Java. The findings suggest that the principal palace of Majapahit was situated in the Kedaton Village area, with its orientation directed toward Mount Kelud to the south, Mount Penanggungan to the east, and the Java Sea to the north. Furthermore, the spatial organization of both the palace and the surrounding city is understood to follow a grid-based layout, integrating road networks and intersecting canal systems. The architectural form of the Majapahit Palace is believed to share strong affinities with Balinese palatial architecture and early Islamic palaces in Java, incorporating key features such as defensive fortifications and enclosing walls arranged in grid patterns, hierarchical layered gates, moats, royal and familial residential compounds, water gardens or pavilions, guest reception structures, and other significant architectural elements.

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