Magelang, a city in the heart of Central Java province, holds various natural charms and deep historical value. With stunning mountain views and an abundance of historical sites, Magelang is one of the main tourist destinations in the region. One tourist attraction that should not be missed when visiting Magelang is Bukit Rhema, or what is more popularly called “Gereja Ayam.”
Also Read: 5 Reasons Bukit Rhema Should Be on Your Holiday Wishlist on Magelang
History of Bukit Rhema
Bukit Rhema is located in Kembanglimus Village, close to the Candi Borobudur area. Although often referred to as “Gereja Ayam,” this building is not actually a church as is often understood. The founder of this Hill, Daniel Alamsjah, built this place as a house of prayer that is open to all people from various religious backgrounds. With unique architecture resembling a dove wearing a crown, Bukit Rhema stands majestically on a hill, offering stunning natural views.
This building has seven floors, and each floor has its own philosophical meaning. Through the journey to the top of the building, visitors are invited to understand the spiritual values, virtues, as well as the various wonders and cultural diversity that exist in Indonesia. The rooms on the basement floor, which measure approximately 2 x 2 meters and 2 x 6 meters, are designed to be used as private prayer areas. Visitors from various religions can pray according to their respective beliefs in this place. The hill is also equipped with various special prayer rooms, including a prayer room for Muslims, as well as other rooms for Christians, Hindus and Buddhists, making it a visible symbol of peace and unity.
The spiritual experience on this Hill does not stop there. On the top floor, known as the crown floor, there are various murals and paintings containing educational messages. One of the murals conveys a message to stay away from drugs, while other paintings display traditional clothing from various regions in Indonesia, showing the beauty of the archipelago’s cultural diversity. The existence of these murals and paintings makes this Hill not only a place of worship, but also an educational center for visitors.
Bukit Rhema also has a social role as a rehabilitation center. In this place, users who want to recover from drug addiction can seek peace and recovery. This role further enriches the meaning and function of Bukit Rhema, which was founded in 1992 as a symbol of peace and unity.
What’s Unique in Bukit Rhema
Visitors who come to Bukit Rhema will also find a comfortable cafe at the tail of the building. This cafe serves a variety of menus, from local coffee to traditional snacks such as fried cassava. With beautiful natural views from a height, this cafe is an ideal place to relax for a while after exploring the buildings.
The uniqueness of Bukit Rhema became increasingly widely known after it became a film shooting location What’s Wrong with Love 2 (AADC 2), which is increasingly attracting the attention of tourists from various regions. Thanks to the presence of this film, Bukit Rhema is now known as one of the tourism icons Magelang. Especially for film fans who want to directly experience the atmosphere of the shooting location.
With a relatively affordable entrance ticket price, namely IDR 25,000 per person, visitors can enjoy the beauty and tranquility that this hill has to offer. The best time to visit this place is in the morning, especially for those who want to witness the magic of the sunrise. From the crown floor, visitors can enjoy incredible 360 degree views. When the sun starts to rise, the atmosphere at Bukit Rhema is magical. A view with a thin mist covering the area, the silhouette of the mountains slowly appearing, and the view of Candi Borobudur visible from a distance.
To reach the top of the building, visitors need to climb the stairs. This journey may be a little tiring, but it is worth the experience you will get once you reach the top. From the top, visitors are treated to a stunning natural panorama. As far as the eye can see, you can see stretches of green forest, mountains, and Candi Borobudur which looks majestic in the distance. This view offers the perfect moment to take photos and capture memories.
Conclusion
Bukit Rhema is not just a religious tourist destination, but also a place that teaches tolerance, peace and unity. Its unique architecture, meaningful history of founding, and charming natural charm make Bukit Rhema a suitable destination to visit with family, friends, or even alone to reflect and seek tranquility. For those of you who are around Magelang, this hill is a place worth exploring and enjoying.
With all its values, Bukit Rhema teaches the importance of togetherness in diversity, while still offering unrivaled natural views.