Field Trip Report Monday, 22nd Feb. 2010 by Joko Wicoyo

The exhibition of the inheritance of Sultan Palace performed during a week from 18th – 26th February 2010 in Pagelaran of Sultan’s Palace is very interesting and very wonderful. It shows the visitors the glory of the past of the Mataram Kingdom and it enriches the visitors’ notion and understanding especially the students of ICRS Yogya about the life, social, economic, cultural, religious activities, and bureaucracy of Mataram Kingdom in the 18th century. How powerful, rich and legitimate the bureaucracy of Sultan’s court and its daily life activities in Yogyakarta and its surroundings were at that time. It can be seen from the carts that were exhibited, the structures of social, cultural, economical, religious and political activities which were displayed through the pictures, photos, narratives, statues, heirlooms, art and crafts (wayang, keris, gamelan, batik, Javanese costumes)

The field trip was interesting and enjoyable since we were guided by the English spoken guide who has got broad and comprehensive knowledge in explaining what were displayed in that exhibition. I think this field trip is valuable for us, ICRS Students, and it can enrich our knowledge since it has good relationship with the subject of History of Religions in Indonesia. We are very lucky studying and living in Yogyakarta which is rich in cultural and religious events and its people fully appreciate multicultural and pluralistic life. This fieldtrip really enriches our knowledge and experiences comprehensively.