The Fascinating History of Java’s Iconic “Chicken Church”
Perched on a forested hilltop in Magelang, just a stone’s throw from the majestic Borobudur Temple, stands one of Indonesia’s most unique architectural marvels: Bukit Rhema. Known affectionately worldwide as the “Gereja Ayam” or the Chicken Church, the history of this fascinating structure began in 1988 when its founder, Daniel Alamsjah, received a profound spiritual vision to construct a universal house of prayer. Construction began in 1992, spanning over a decade of dedication to bring this magnificent structure to life.
While locals and travelers endearingly call it the Chicken Church due to its giant bird-like structure topped with a crown, the building was originally designed to resemble a dove, the universal symbol of peace and hope. Far from being an ordinary church, Bukit Rhema was built with a noble mission: to serve as an open, welcoming sanctuary where people of all religious backgrounds can gather, pray, and find inner peace, sending a powerful message of interfaith harmony and tolerance.
Bukit Rhema’s rise to global fame was fueled by several unique highlights:
1. Pop Culture Icon: The sanctuary gained massive international recognition after being featured as a pivotal, romantic shooting location in the blockbuster Indonesian film What’s Up With Love? 2 (AADC 2).
2. A Sanctuary for Healing: True to its message of compassion, the site historically operated a dedicated rehabilitation center at the base of the hill to help those recovering from drug addiction and mental illness.
3. The Wall of Hope: Visitors can participate in a beautiful interactive tradition by leaving personal prayers, dreams, and wishes on a specially designated wall inside the sanctuary.
Today, Bukit Rhema stands as a spectacular testament to faith and unity. Visitors can climb up to the crown of the structure to enjoy a breathtaking, panoramic view of the surrounding Menoreh Hills and the distant silhouette of Borobudur Temple rising above the morning mist.
