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Ger Gunung City Forest Hidden Gem Klaten
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Hi everyone, welcome to my blog again. 👋👋
A few days ago, I just visited Gergunung City Forest in Klaten, and it turned out to be great place! Perfect for those looking for place to refresh themselves or just have a relaxing picnic with the family. Visiting in the morning for exercise is also fun with the fresh air! The location is strategic, not far from the city center. Yesterday, I came from Klaten Square, and only took about 15 minutes to get there. It's very easy to find.
As soon as you enter, you immediately feel the coolness because there are trees everywhere providing shade. There’s a jogging track that is quite comfortable for morning runs or leisurely walks. But what most surprising and iconic in my opinion are the statues.
So, there are a lot of really cool statues there, each with its own meaning.
The area near Prambanan in Klaten is known for its temples. This statue reminds us that there is the very impressive Sojiwan Temple in Klaten, full of stories in its reliefs. It's like a sign, "Hey, don’t forget to stop by our historical heritage!"
That statue depicts a woman making "Gerabah" goods, right? That's because Wedi, especially in Melikan Village, is known as a pottery producing area in Klaten. They have long made pots and jars from clay. So that statue showcases the skills of the local people.
In Ceper, the statue resembles metallic materials. That's because Ceper is the "capital" of the metal casting industry. Anything made of metal, from doorknobs to fences to workshop tools, is often produced there. That statue symbolizes their hard work and industry.
It’s easy to guess, Juwiring is the center for traditional colorful umbrella makers. Decorative umbrellas for cultural events or decoration. Very distinctive.
In Wonosari, there are a lot of puppet masters and leather puppet craftsmen. This area is like the "factory" of puppeteers in Klaten. So, the wayang statue shows that this is the center of puppet culture.
This one is very clear. Delanggu is the rice granary of Klaten. Delanggu rice, especially the Rojolele variety, is legendary. The rice statue symbolizes the fertility and prosperity of agriculture.
Now, this is one of the most unique! The Apem Tower in Jatinom reminds us of the "Yaa Qowiyyu" apem spreading tradition every year. During this event, people scramble for apem thrown from the tower as a form of blessing. That statue serves as a reminder of this amazing tradition.
Manisrenggo is located on the slopes of a mountain, and its soil is suitable for tobacco. The statue of a person cutting tobacco represents their staple agricultural product.
Unlike Wonosari, Karangnongko focuses more on wood craftsmen, including making puppets from wood. That statue marks their specialization in craftsmanship.
This is a replica of the majestic Al-Aqsha Grand Mosque tower in Klaten. Since the mosque is in the city center (North Klaten region), this statue has become the city center's icon.
In Karanganom, there are many garment or home confectionery businesses. One of their skills is attaching sequins (beads) to clothes. So, that statue symbolizes the creative and fashion industry there.
Pati onggok is tapioca flour made from cassava. Tulung is one of the centers for processing cassava into flour. So that statue shows the potential of its industry.
If you’re looking for authentic lurik fabric, then go to Pedan. This area is legendary for its woven lurik cloth. The statue of a person weaving signifies, "This is where authentic Klaten lurik fabric is made."
Gejog lesung is traditional music using a mortar (a container for pounding rice) that is struck. Well, in Cawas, this folk art is still very much alive. This statue represents the culture and togetherness of its people.
Lastly, Bayat is a paradise for hand drawn batik. Bayat batik has its own distinctive characteristics and has been famous for a long time. The statue of women making batik is a form of respect for the craftsmen there.
After walk or exercise, you don't need to worry about feeling hungry or thirsty. Around the city forest area, there are many simple stalls. It's perfect for hang out, having coffee, or just enjoying chicken noodles with family or friends. The prices are also very affordable.
Overall, Gergunung City Forest is highly recommended. It’s a simple place but can be used for exercise, family recreation, light education about regional characteristics, and, of course, relaxed culinary experiences. The people of Klaten should be proud to have a place like this!
