In a former stone quarry located near Prambanan Temple,there were formless stones with a huge boulder. But with local wisdom and theskills of its people, this large cliff is transformed into an attractivetourist destination. Its name is the Breksi Cliff.
Today, this cliff has become one of the popular touristattractions in Yogyakarta. Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X, the Sultan ofYogyakarta, has made the Breksi Cliff Park as a cultural preserve. Here aresome facts about Breksi Cliff Park.
History
The Breksi Cliff has a long history and is quitecontroversial. This place was once a limestone mining site, carried outtraditionally by the local community. The government considered that miningactivity here was dangerous and potentially damaging the environment, so theyprohibited it.
After mining activities ceased, the surrounding communitybegan to develop this place into a tourist destination. The cliff which wasoriginally a large chunk of the boulder was carved little by little to becomean artistic and photogenic attraction.
Popularity
It doesn’t take long for the Breksi Cliff to gain popularity among tourists. With the many instagramable spots, tourists flock to this area to enjoy works of art set in this somewhat natural setting.
Some came to appreciate the carvings and workmanship, some others came with the intention to take photos to feed their social media need, especially their Instagram. Many brides-to-be also choose to do their pre-wedding photo-shoot at this place.
Facilities
Breksi Cliff also offers several other alternative activities such as rock climbing, sunset viewing, biking, or just walking around the place to enjoy its panoramic beauty. An outdoor amphitheater is located just next to the cliff.
This amphitheater is called Tlatar Seneng, with a circular stage with a diameter of 15 meters in the center of it. Just like the ancient Roman amphitheater, the spectators were sitting on the terraced seats above the ground that surrounds the stage.
Must be extra careful
If you decide to climb up to the Breksi Cliff, you have tobe very careful because some of the stairs here are not equipped with paling amanrailings at the edges. Therefore if you decide to climb this big chunk ofcarved rock, even though it is quite easy to get to the top, you must keep yourfocus so that you don’t fall over, especially if you are with children.
Geologically, the rock on this cliff is formed from volcanicdeposits due to ancient volcanic eruptions. The structure is indeed quitestrong, but because the security concern is still there, preventive measure ontourists’ part is necessary.
Breksi Cliffs are very easy to reach from all part inYogyakarta and Magelang. The journey by car from the center of Yogyakarta Cityto the Breksi Cliff takes around 2 hours. Just keep in mind that this place maynot be the best destination for children because of the security reason.