Kraton or Sultan Palace

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Before 1755, Surakarta, or Solo, served as the capital of the Mataram Kingdom. However, after the Treaty of Giyanti in 1755, the kingdom was divided into two: the Kasunanan Palace in Solo and the Sultan Palace in Yogyakarta. Prince Mangkubumi, brother of Susuhunan Pakubuwono II, the King of the Kasunanan Palace, became Sultan Hamengku Buwono I, ruling from Yogyakarta.

The Sultan’s Palace, or Kraton, boasts grand and elegant Javanese architecture at the heart of Jogja city. Constructed in 1755 by Prince Mangkubumi, it stretches from north to south, with the Alun-alun Utara (North Square) in the front and Alun-alun Selatan (South Square) in the rear. Its design aligns with an axis connecting the palace, the Tugu obelisk, and Mount Merapi, signifying its significance in governance and decision-making.

Purworetno, the main section of the Kraton, serves as the Sultan’s official residence and workplace. Its luxurious Javanese architecture offers visitors a glimpse into centuries-old traditions. The palace houses numerous sets of Gamelan instruments, antiques, and heirlooms, making it one of Yogyakarta’s most captivating tourist attractions. Today, it serves as the residence of Sultan Hamengku Buwono X and his family.