Gua Maria Kerep Ambarawa: A Sacred Destination in Central Java
Central Java is home to many beautiful and significant religious sites, and one of these is the Cave of the Virgin Mary, also known as Gua Maria Kerep Ambarawa. This cave holds great meaning for Catholics and has also attracted tourists from different religious backgrounds. Established in 1954, during the Year of Virgin Mary the Immaculate declared by Pope John Paul II, the cave serves as a place of worship and devotion to the Virgin Mother. It is one of three caves dedicated to Mother Mary in this part of Java, alongside the Maria Cave at Sendangsono in Yogyakarta and the Maria Cave at Sriningsih in Klaten, Central Java.
Gua Maria Kerep Ambarawa, or commonly known as Gua Kerep, was designed to resemble the Cave of Maria in Lourdes, France. It spans an area of 5 hectares and features various scenes depicting key events from the Life of Jesus. These scenes include The Sea of Galilee, The River Jordan, The Kana Banquet, Under the Fig Tree, The Way to the Cross, and finally, The Tomb of Jesus. Over time, several renovations have been carried out to enhance visitors’ experience. Now, Gua Maria Kerep boasts complete facilities such as function rooms for meetings and spiritual retreats, a cave chapel that can accommodate up to 400 worshipers, and a prayer room large enough for 3,000 people.
Despite its accessibility from major cities like Yogyakarta, Solo (Surakarta), or Semarang,the cave is situated at a fair distance from the main highway. This location contributes to its serene atmosphere and offers visitors an escape from their daily routines. Surrounded by Mount Telomoyo, Mount Merbabu,and Lake Rawa Pening, Gua Maria Kerep is not only a place of worship but also a sanctuary to connect with nature and find inner peace. Pilgrimages to the cave are organized during the second week of each month, attracting an average of 8,000 visitors.
Ambarawa, the town where Gua Maria Kerep is located, has its own attractions that make it worth exploring. The Railway Museum is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts as it showcases grand old locomotives. If you’re interested in ancient sites, the archaeological site of Gedung Songo, which consists of nine temples built in the 8th century, is just 9 kilometers away from Ambarawa. After immersing yourself in history and culture, take some time to unwind at Tlogo Plantation and enjoy a refreshing cup of coffee.
How to Get There
Gua Maria Kerep can be found in Ambarawa, approximately 900 meters from the main road connecting Semarang and Magelang. It is situated not too far from Yogyakarta as well. If you’re traveling from Semarang,Solo (Surakarta), or Yogyakarta, travel agents can help arrange transport to Ambarawa via mini-bus. The journey usually takes around 1-2 hours from Yogyakarta or just 1 hour from Semarang.
For those who prefer a more adventurous approach, it is possible to reach the cave on foot from the Ambarawa terminal. However, be prepared for quite a long walk. Alternatively,you can opt for a more traditional means of transportation such as taking a horse-drawn carriage called “andong” or “delman,” or even hiring an ojek (motorcycle taxi) or motorbike ride. If you’re coming from outside Java or even outside Indonesia altogether,Semarang, Solo (Surakarta), and Yogyakarta airports are well-connected to major cities internationally, including Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.
Visiting Gua Maria Kerep Ambarawa is not just a religious experience but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the cultural and natural beauty of Central Java. Whether you’re a Catholic seeking spiritual connection or a traveler looking for a unique destination, this cave offers something special. Plan your visit, explore the surrounding attractions, and let the peacefulness of Gua Maria Kerep Ambarawa captivate you.
