Spatial Permeability in Kraton Yogyakarta, Indonesia during the HB IX-HB X Periods

Abstract

Kraton Yogyakarta is the center of traditional Javanese culture in Yogyakarta, besides functioning as the residence of the royal family and the center of government. It was established in 1755 as a result of the decision of the Giyanti agreement, which was then led by the king with the title Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono (HB). This hereditary leadership is still ongoing until today, which is currently led by Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X (HB X). The Kraton of Yogyakarta is a Javanese kingdom that still exists today. It, went through the colonial period and, the independence of the Republic of Indonesia followed by the joining of the Yogyakarta palace as part of Indonesia.This study examines the level of permeability of the Yogyakarta palace during the reigns of HB IX and HB X. It employs case study method with a qualitative approach. This involves actors of activities as a source of interview data, in addition to historical studies through books, maps and pictures.It reveals that the periods of both rulers, especially the HB IX period, have gone through a transitional period where the Yogyakarta palace was still under the colonialists who later joined the Republic of Indonesia. Kraton Yogyakarta as the residence of the royal family and the center of government, is officially closed and can only be accessed by people who have directly relate to the king.According to the findings, the current conditions however are very different. People can easily access parts of the palace. The level of permeability in parts of the Kraton is different and has changed since the HB IX and currently HB X. The level of permeability is influenced by changes in the king's policy to maintain the role of the Yogyakarta palace to maintain its identity as the cultural center and residence of the royal family.