Kelanawisata.id, Yogyakarta - The opening of the Smarabawana exhibition within the grounds of the Yogyakarta Palace was both festive and rich in cultural significance. The event, held in the Bangsal Pagelaran area of the Yogyakarta Palace, marked the start of a series of early-year temporary exhibitions highlighting the relationship between humans, nature, and the spatial history of the Yogyakarta Sultanate. The official opening was conducted by His Majesty Sultan HB X on Saturday afternoon (03/07).

Shortly after the performance began, rain briefly fell over the palace grounds, but it did not dampen the enthusiasm of the guests and tourists in attendance. The opening ceremony began with a captivating vocal performance by the Yogyakarta Royal Choir, which presented a cappella compositions with classical and traditional folk music elements.

The harmony of voices echoing through the open-air Bangsal Pagelaran created a delightful yet elegant atmosphere. The a cappella vocal performance served as the opening act to highlight the philosophy of the relationship between humans and nature within Yogyakarta’s cosmology.

One of the highlights of the opening was a fashion show titled “Buron Wana.” This show featured artistic costumes inspired by the wild animals that once inhabited the Beringan Forest—creatures believed to have dominated the area before the establishment of the Yogyakarta Palace in the 18th century.

Through theatrical animal costume designs, the models presented visual interpretations of various forest creatures—such as birds, deer, and other wildlife—symbolizing the natural life in the region before it evolved into a center of Javanese culture.

The “Buron Wana” concept itself serves as a creative way to recall the natural landscape of the past that once enveloped the Yogyakarta region before the construction of the palace began during the reign of Prince Mangkubumi. Through this performance, visitors are invited to understand that the palace area holds not only historical and cultural value but also significant ecological traces in the city’s historical journey.

Although it rained briefly during the performance, the atmosphere at Bangsal Pagelaran remained warm and spirited. The gentle rain added a dramatic touch to the ongoing cultural performance, as if blending seamlessly with the natural theme highlighted by the Smarabawana exhibition.

The opening of this exhibition further enriches Yogyakarta’s cultural calendar, making it an attractive destination for tourists. By combining artistic performances, palace history, and creative interpretations of nature, the Smarabawana Exhibition offers a unique cultural tourism experience for anyone visiting the Yogyakarta Palace.

For tourists wishing to experience an authentic cultural atmosphere, the Smarabawana Exhibition at the Yogyakarta Palace is a must-visit destination. The exhibition runs from March 8, 2026, to August 26, 2026, at the Yogyakarta Palace.