Who says that only modern technology can yield architectural marvels? Deep in the heart of Magelang’s jungle landscape is nestled one of the unexpected treasures of the Indonesian archipelago. The Borobudur Temple complex is an astoundingly well-preserved gift from the past: it’s the largest and most complicated Buddhist temple in the world. The sheer intricacy and depth of thought underlying the ancients’ vision in constructing this temple is sure to leave you in awe. Thought-provoking Buddhist concepts are played out in the design of the temple itself, creating a pyramidal structure that’s the physical embodiment of this philosophical religion and a Buddhist pilgrimage in itself. It is divided into three structures that symbolize the strata of Buddhist cosmology. A pilgrim begins at the base level, or Kamadhatu, the lowest state of being where one is still bound to one’s desires. Ascension to the body of the monument brings you to Rupadhatu, the sphere where you abandon desires but are still constrained by name and form. The superstructure is arupadhatu, commonly known in western culture as Nirvana. Even if you aren’t a Buddhist believer, this incredibly physical and spiritual progression will still strike a chord within you.