Puri Tri Agung

The Grandeur of Puri Tri Agung Architecture: A Symbol of Harmony on Bangka's Coast

Puri Tri Agung stands majestically as one of the contemporary architectural masterpieces adorning the eastern coastline of Bangka Island, specifically in the Pantai Tikus area, Sungailiat. This building is not merely a place of worship, but an architectural statement that blends spiritual aesthetics with the natural landscape beauty of the Bangka Belitung Islands. Since its inauguration on January 18, 2015, after a 12-year construction process, Puri Tri Agung has become an international religious tourism icon, drawing global attention through its unique design.

#

Design Philosophy and Architectural Concept

Visually, Puri Tri Agung adopts a massive circular form, a beautiful anomaly when compared to the typically angular shapes of traditional places of worship. This circular form is not without meaning; it symbolizes perfection, without beginning and without end, and represents the concept of "Tri Agung" which encompasses three major teachings: Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism.

Its architectural style is often associated with a replica of the Temple of Heaven (Tiantan) in Beijing, but with strong local adaptations. The building has a diameter of approximately 30 meters and a height exceeding 30 meters. Its three-tiered roof soars high into the sky, giving a grand and monumental impression to anyone approaching it from the coastal road.

#

Structural Uniqueness and Landscape Integration

One of the most prominent structural innovations of Puri Tri Agung is the utilization of the hilly topography. The building stands on a hill directly facing the Natuna Sea. Its architecture is designed to maximize a 360-degree view. From the front veranda, visitors are treated to a panorama of the blue sea contrasting with the building's walls dominated by cream and golden yellow.

The construction of this building uses materials resistant to seawater corrosion, given its location just a few hundred meters from the shoreline. The use of large concrete pillars in the interior provides structural support for the vast circular dome, creating a spacious interior without many partitions, which allows for excellent natural air circulation—an essential element in tropical architecture.

#

Interior Ornamentation and Aesthetic Details

Upon entering the interior of Puri Tri Agung, visitors are greeted by three large deity statues representing each of the teachings. The spatial layout follows strict symmetrical principles, a hallmark of classical Chinese architecture. The floor uses high-quality marble, providing a cool impression amidst Bangka's hot coastal weather.

The ornamentation on the interior ceiling showcases the meticulous work of artisans. There are carvings that narrate the philosophy of life, combined with natural lighting entering through gaps in the windows at the top of the tiered roof. The colors used are highly symbolic: red symbolizes happiness and good fortune, while gold symbolizes glory and sanctity.

#

Historical Context and Construction

The construction of Puri Tri Agung was an initiative of local foundations and the Bangka community who wished to create an inclusive spiritual center. The construction process, spanning over a decade, demonstrates dedication to the quality of architectural details. Although no single architect's name dominates the narrative of its construction, the design is a result of collaborative thinking from Chinese-Bangka community leaders who wanted to unite traditional Chinese elements with the spirit of Indonesian diversity.

This temple stands as a testament to the modern history of Bangka Belitung in fostering tolerance. The long history of Chinese immigration to Bangka to work in the tin mines has shaped the unique culture of "Fan Ngin Tong Ngin Jit Jong" (Chinese and Malay are the same), and Puri Tri Agung is a physical manifestation of this social philosophy.

#

Cultural and Social Significance

Puri Tri Agung functions as more than just a place of worship. Architecturally, it is designed to be a public space. The spacious courtyard surrounding the building is often used for various cultural festivals, from Lunar New Year celebrations to other major religious rituals. The existence of this building has transformed the face of Bangka's tourism, from previously being solely beach-based to cultural and architectural tourism.

This building also serves as a symbol of harmony. Although it is a center for Tri Dharma teachings, visitors from various religious and ethnic backgrounds are allowed to explore its architectural beauty. This makes Puri Tri Agung an interesting object of study for architecture students and designers on how a building can facilitate cross-cultural social interaction.

#

Visitor Experience and Sustainability

For visitors, the architectural experience begins from the ascent path to the main gate. The building's position, "turning its back" to the hill and "facing" the sea, creates a dramatic effect. The sea breeze freely entering the building's corridors creates a calm and contemplative atmosphere.

Currently, the maintenance of Puri Tri Agung is a primary focus to preserve its structural integrity from salt exposure and extreme weather. Its existence continues to be developed with the addition of supporting facilities around it without damaging the aesthetics of the main building. Puri Tri Agung is not just neatly arranged concrete and cement, but an architectural soul that reflects the identity of Bangka Island: resilient, beautiful, and open to everyone.

With all its grandeur, Puri Tri Agung remains one of the most significant architectural destinations in the Bangka Belitung Islands, a monument that proves good design can unite humans with nature, and at the same time, humans with the Creator in perfect harmony.