History of Gereja Ayam Borobudur: From House of Prayer to AADC 2 Icon

In the Menoreh Hills area, stands Bukit Rhema, a building known by many tourists as the Gereja Ayam Borobudur. Behind its unique shape, this place started from Daniel Alamsjah’s prayers and vision about a prayer house for all people.

At a Glance: What Building is This Actually?

Before we dive deeper, let’s get things straight. The name you hear everywhere, ‘Gereja Ayam Borobudur’, is honestly just a popular nickname from tourists. Its official name is Bukit Rhema. Yes, Bukit Rhema, where we are located, in the Borobudur area, Magelang, Central Java.

Just imagine, an iconic building standing proudly at an altitude of about 120 masl, surrounded by an expanse of green rice fields that spoil the eyes. The distance is not far, only about 2.5 km from the magnificent Candi Borobudur. This place is not just a destination for taking photos, but a silent witness to the passage of time, dreams, and determination.

Not an ordinary church — it is an interfaith ‘Prayer House’

One of the biggest misunderstandings about Bukit Rhema is the assumption that it is a Christian church. But, did you know? This building was actually designed as an interfaith ‘Prayer House’ by its founder, Mr. Daniel Alamsjah. This is not a place of worship for a specific denomination, but an open space for anyone who wants to pray, reflect, or simply seek peace, regardless of their beliefs.

Daniel Alamsjah had an extraordinary vision: a place where everyone can feel accepted and together find peace. Imagine, in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the world, there is a place that stands as a symbol of unity and tolerance, far from the barriers of differences. The sensation of being inside, feeling the aura of calmness and togetherness, is an experience you cannot get anywhere else.

Is Bukit Rhema a Christian church?

No. This building was designed as a prayer house for all people by Daniel Alamsjah, not as a church for a specific denomination. The core building of Bukit Rhema can still be used together, and this area also has worship spaces for the needs of visitors.

The Beginning: Daniel Alamsjah’s Prayer and the First Stone Laying

In 1988, Daniel Alamsjah prayed in the hilly area which is now the location of the Bukit Rhema building. That prayer and experience became the beginning of the vision to build a prayer house for all people.

He then designated the Bukit Rhema area in Karangrejo Village, Borobudur, as the place to realize this vision. From here began the journey of building the iconic building now known as Gereja Ayam.

The vision of a prayer house that reaches all religions

The vision in Daniel Alamsjah’s mind was not just to build a building. More than that, he imagined a ‘House of Prayer Borobudur’ that would become a spiritual lighthouse, a place where every soul could find closeness to the Creator, regardless of religious, ethnic, or racial background. This is a vision of unity in diversity, of a house that embraces all.

The search for a location brought Daniel to the Menoreh hills, near Borobudur. When he found the hill in Karangrejo Village, he immediately felt this was the place he saw in his dream. There was a kind of very strong inner calling, a feeling that destiny had brought him here. A sincere belief, even amidst limitations.

Laying of the First Stone in 1992

The laying of the first stone was done in 1992. After that, the construction of the Bukit Rhema building proceeded gradually, following the support and available capabilities. This was not a large project funded by giant corporations, but rather a personal endeavor driven by faith and the vision of a prayer house.

Slowly, the unique building began to reveal its shape. From the foundation to the walls, every stone laid was a symbol of hope. People around started wondering, what Magelang chicken building was being built on top of this hill? The spirit of mutual cooperation and enthusiasm at that time was so palpable, becoming an inseparable part of the history of Gereja Ayam Borobudur that we know today.

Why is it Shaped Like a Chicken?

Here is the most frequently asked question, and perhaps it is also on your mind right now. Why is this building called a ‘Prayer House’ instead shaped like a chicken?

The philosophy of a peaceful dove in the form of a chicken

The interesting fact is that Daniel Alamsjah actually designed this building to resemble a dove, a symbol of peace and the Holy Spirit. However, from a certain perspective, especially for local eyes that are accustomed to roosters, its shape indeed looks more like a sitting rooster with a crown on its head. That is why the nickname ‘Gereja Ayam’ stuck closely and became its popular identity.

Just try, if you come directly here, try to find which angle makes this building look like a dove, and which angle makes it look like a chicken. This experience itself has become a part of your adventure. You will see how perspective can change everything.

Why is it called Gereja Ayam?

Daniel Alamsjah designed this building to resemble a dove as a symbol of peace. However, the surrounding community saw the head part wearing a crown more like a chicken’s comb. From there, the term Gereja Ayam became popular.

The spiritual meaning behind the design

Regardless of the ‘chicken’ or ‘dove’ debate, the spiritual meaning behind this design is much deeper. The dove itself symbolizes peace, hope, and purity. Daniel Alamsjah wanted Bukit Rhema to be a place where people could find inner peace, return to hope, and feel a higher presence.

This philosophy reflects the spirit of inclusivity and unity that is the core of the vision of this ‘Prayer House’. Not only about its physical shape, but also about the message it wants to convey to the world. It is a reminder that amidst differences, we can all gather under one roof, seeking the same meaning.

Abandoned Period (1999–2012)

After a hopeful beginning, this journey of the history of Gereja Ayam Borobudur entered a bleak chapter. The construction that started with full spirit had to stop halfway. The unfinished building slowly began to be swallowed by nature.

Construction Stopped in 1999

In 1999, the construction of Bukit Rhema stopped. After that, Daniel Alamsjah focused more on serving at the Bethesda Rehabilitation Center. This condition caused the area and building of Bukit Rhema to be neglected for several years.

Since the construction stopped in 1999 until 2012, the Bukit Rhema area was in an abandoned condition and rarely visited. The unfinished building slowly blended with its surrounding environment until it later began to be cleaned up again.

Area Started to be Cleaned in 2012

In 2012, the long unmaintained area began to be cleaned up again. This process became an important step to organize the environment of Bukit Rhema and reopen access for people who wanted to get to know the building.

Many stories and myths circulated among the public about this “chicken building”. Some considered it a sacred place, others were afraid to approach it. For years, this building just became a silent witness to the changing seasons, rain, and heat, waiting for its moment to shine again. This is an important chapter in the history of Gereja Ayam Borobudur that teaches about resilience.

AADC 2 Filming Location in 2015

After the area started being cleaned, attention towards Bukit Rhema grew significantly. In 2015, a film production used this location for shooting and introduced its atmosphere to a wider audience.

A Location that Invites Tourists’ Attention

In 2015, the film “Ada Apa dengan Cinta 2” (AADC 2) used Bukit Rhema as one of its filming locations. The building and the scenery from this area then became increasingly known, so many tourists started looking for and visiting the place that was previously not widely known.

Instantly, people wondered, where is this beautiful location? From then on, the name ‘Gereja Ayam’ became widely known, becoming the talk of the town on social media, and becoming a dream destination for travelers. You can search for the scene on YouTube to relive the viral moment.

From almost zero to 10,000 visitors per month

After AADC 2 used this location, tourist visits to Bukit Rhema increased and the area became more crowded. The film became one of the important moments that helped introduce Gereja Ayam to tourists from various regions.

This event became a turning point for the history of Gereja Ayam Borobudur. Daniel Alamsjah and his team then cleaned up, tidied the surrounding area, and opened this building to the public. Now, you can freely explore every corner of it, climb up to the head of the building, and enjoy the same view that Rangga and Cinta enjoyed. A truly magical transformation!

If you want to plan a visit to Borobudur and its surroundings, don’t forget to take a look at our Borobudur Sunrise Tourism Hub Pillar for a complete guide.

When did Bukit Rhema start getting crowded?

The Bukit Rhema area began to be arranged and cleaned again in 2012. After being used as a filming location for AADC 2 in 2015, this place became increasingly known and heavily visited by tourists.

Bukit Rhema Now: Tourism + Gastronomy

After going through various ups and downs of history, Bukit Rhema has now risen and transformed into one of the most interesting tourist destinations around Borobudur. It’s not just about its iconic building, but also the comprehensive experience it offers.

What can be visited

When you visit Bukit Rhema, you can explore the entire building area which has 7 floors. Yes, you can climb the stairs to the head of the ‘chicken’ or ‘dove’ to enjoy spectacular views. From the top, you will be treated to an extraordinary 360-degree panorama: vast expanses of green rice fields, the majestic Menoreh hills, and on a clear day, even the peaks of Merapi-Merbabu will seem to greet you from afar.

The operational hours of the Bukit Rhema or Gereja Ayam tourist area are 06.30-17.00 WIB. For eating and resting, Kedai Bukit Rhema is open every day at 06.00-19.00 WIB. The sunrise program is available starting at 04.30 WIB through advance booking. The entrance ticket price for the Bukit Rhema tourist area is IDR 25,000 per person. With a fairly long visit time, you can explore the building, enjoy the panorama, then continue your time at Kedai Bukit Rhema.

Can visitors enter the building?

Yes. Visitors can go up through the stairs to the 7th floor, which is the head part of the building, to enjoy a 360-degree view of the Menoreh Hills and the Borobudur area.

Kedai Bukit Rhema: eating with a view of the iconic building

After being satisfied exploring the building and enjoying the view from its peak, your stomach must be starting to rumble, right? Well, in the same complex as Bukit Rhema, there is a perfect place to recharge: Kedai Bukit Rhema. We are here to complete your tourist experience.

Imagine, you can enjoy delicious dishes and warm coffee with a direct view of the iconic Bukit Rhema building, surrounded by green rice fields and cool mountain air. This is a gastronomic experience that is no less special. Kedai Bukit Rhema offers a variety of appetizing local menus, suitable for breakfast, lunch, or just an afternoon coffee. This is one of the Bukit Rhema facts that you might not know much about yet: we are ready to welcome you with typical Borobudur warmth.

What is the relationship between Gereja Ayam and Kedai Bukit Rhema?

Kedai Bukit Rhema is a restaurant located in the same complex. After visiting the Bukit Rhema building, tourists can eat, enjoy coffee, and rest with views of the rice fields and Menoreh Hills.

Tips for Visiting Gereja Ayam

Visiting Bukit Rhema or Gereja Ayam Borobudur still requires a little preparation so that your experience is maximized. Because its location is in the hills, come in the morning around the opening hours of the tourist area, which is 06.30 WIB, to enjoy a cooler atmosphere. If you want to join the sunrise program at 04.30 WIB, make a booking in advance. Don’t forget to bring a hat, sunglasses, and enough drinking water, especially if you plan to climb to the top of the building.

From Borobudur Temple, the distance to Bukit Rhema is around 2.5 km. Road access to the location is easy to follow using Google Maps, although some parts of the road are uphill and winding. If using a private vehicle, make sure the vehicle is in prime condition and check the route before leaving. For those of you planning a 2 days 1 night Borobudur itinerary, Bukit Rhema can be included in the visit list.

After being satisfied exploring and capturing moments at the peak of Bukit Rhema, don’t go home right away! We are waiting for you at Kedai Bukit Rhema. Let’s enjoy our signature dishes while sharing stories about your adventure today. You can directly contact us for reservations or just to ask questions via WhatsApp: 0857-2577-9520. Or, take a peek at our delicious menus here: View Kedai Bukit Rhema Menu. See you in Borobudur!