Pagaruyung, Again

Early in the morning, we leave Payakumbuh for Batusangkar to visit Istano Basa Pagaruyung. It’s only an hour driving. Actually, this is our second time visiting this place. We decided to be here again, because our previous visit was in the night (read here).

Istano Basa pagaruyung gate

The first time we’re here, it’s alrady dark and we wasn’t able to have a look around. Now we found out that this palace is so beautiful with hills and ricefields on background. Combine with the greatness of the palace, it’s an amazing view. Yes, you easily find many similar building at West Sumatera, but this is the greatest and the origin of all. It’s like all the great art of Minang specially given for this palace. It always looks great, no matter how many times and when we come here. Why? The answer is, there’s special beauty with Minangnese master art in every part and corner of the building. Take a look at the carvings on the wall. They’re so amazing.

Istano Basa Pagaruyung ( Front )

Istano Basa Pagaruyung ( Side View )

carvings on the wall

Beautiful Wall Lamp

You can also found unique buildings on the both sides of the main building. The first one called “Rangkiang“. Minangnese used to store paddies there. Then there’s “Surau“, a place for prayers, with the big drum on it. At the park on the right side of the palace, there’s an unique stone that looks special, but we can’t find out what t really is. There’s no any information on it.

Big drum

Rangkiang

unknown stone

Actually, this is not the original palace. The original had already burnt, sadly, for a few times. The government keep on repairing to mantain the original shape of the palace. The last time it burned was in 2007. Now it looks so amazing. But we still can’t enter inside the palace, because it’s not officially open yet. Some say, it would be on March 2013. yeah, maybe we’ll come back again later to see what’s inside.

At the front yard

Enjoy the picture 🙂

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