Indonesia is fast becoming recognized as an exciting country to visit.
Of course, many of the nation's attractions are already world
famous and some, like Java's Temple of Borobudur, Sumatra's Lake
Toba and the Island of Bali have for years been compelling destinations.
More recently, the Province of East Java has begun to reveal
a wealth of cultural and natural resources, among them the spectacular
volcanic regions of Mt Bromo and Kawah Ijen, the rugged southern
coastline and, in the field of history, the rich cultural heritage
to be wit nessed at sites such as Trowulan, ancient capital of
the Hindu kingdom of Majapahit. The purpose of this book is to
expose yet another of Indonesia's hidden treasures; the as yet
little known area of Java's north coast, in particular the legacy
left to us by the island's first Muslim missionaries, who have
come to be known as the Wali Songo, or 'Nine Saints of Islam'.
According to tradition, there were nine outstanding figures who
together were largely responsible for the dissemination of the
Islamic faith. Known as the Wali Songo, they are recognized today
as having been especially influential in the transformation of
Javanese religion and culture.
The tombs of the Wali Songo, as well as those of many other important
historical figures, can be found scattered along Java's north coast between
Surabaya and Cirebon. Below is a list of the nine walls and the
locations of their graves.
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