Biting Site

Historical Origins and Period of Establishment

The name "Biting" itself originates from the Madurese word "Benteng" (bhiting), referring to the primary function of this area as a military defense installation. Historically, the Biting Site is believed to have begun flourishing in the late 13th century, specifically around 1293 AD. Its construction is closely linked to major political events following the fall of the Singhasari Kingdom and the establishment of Majapahit.

Based on the ancient texts Pararaton and Kidung Harsawijaya, this area is identical to the capital of the Lumajang Tigang Juru Kingdom, led by Arya Wiraraja. After assisting Raden Wijaya in establishing Majapahit, Arya Wiraraja claimed the promised division of East Java (the Lamajang Tigang Juru region), which included Lumajang, Panarukan, and Blambangan. The Biting Site served as the center of government as well as the main defense fortress for this autonomous kingdom.

Fortress Architecture and Construction Details

The architectural characteristics of the Biting Site are unique and differ from typical temples in East Java. The primary focus is on military functionality. The fortress covers a total area of approximately 135 hectares, making it one of the largest fortified settlement complexes of its time.

The most prominent main structure is the fortress wall (talud), made from large red bricks. These bricks are significantly larger than modern bricks, reflecting the high-firing techniques of the classical era. The fortress is approximately 10 kilometers long, with wall widths reaching 6 meters and an estimated former height of 10 meters.

Its construction uniqueness lies in its double defense system. The site is surrounded by natural rivers, the Bondoyudo and Mayang Rivers, which served as natural moats. Ancient architects utilized the river's contours to make it difficult for enemies to enter the core area (palace). Within this area, remnants of structures believed to be gates (gapura), watchtowers, and foundations of residential buildings arranged neatly according to ancient urban planning patterns have also been found.

Historical Significance and Key Events

The Biting Site is a symbol of eastern sovereignty. One of the most significant events associated with this site is the "Paregreg War," a major civil war in Majapahit between the western court (Vikramawardhana) and the eastern court (Bhre Wirabhumi). Lumajang, with Biting as its heart, became the power base for the eastern faction.

Furthermore, this site is tangible evidence of a "Transitional State." It was here that cultural assimilation occurred between the strong Hindu-Buddhist influences from inland Java and the more dynamic coastal influences. The discovery of ceramics from the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties in this area indicates that Biting was not merely an isolated military fortress but an international trading center connected to global maritime networks through ports on the north and east coasts.

Key Figures: Arya Wiraraja and Menak Koncar

The figure most closely associated with the Biting narrative is Arya Wiraraja (Banyak Wide). He was a masterful strategist who served as Rakryan Demung in Singhasari before becoming the Duke of Sumenep and eventually the king of Lumajang. His intelligence in diplomacy and infrastructure development made Lumajang a respected region by central Majapahit.

Besides Wiraraja, the name Menak Koncar also appears in oral traditions and local historical records as the ruler of Lumajang in a later period. He is often associated with the transition towards Islamic influence in the region. The presence of ancient tombs within the site complex, known as the Makam Menak Koncar (Menak Koncar's Tomb), strengthens the historical layer that the Biting Site continued to be used until the period of Islamic spread in East Java.

Preservation Status and Restoration Efforts

For decades, the Biting Site was neglected, with many parts of the fortress buried or damaged by sand mining activities and residential expansion. However, since the 2010s, awareness of the site's importance has grown. The Center for Cultural Heritage Preservation (BPCB) of East Java, along with local history advocacy communities, has conducted extensive excavations and zoning.

Currently, the Biting Site has been designated as a Provincial Cultural Heritage Area. Security measures are in place with protective fences at crucial points and the establishment of the Biting Site Museum, which houses discovered artifacts such as pottery fragments, foreign ceramics, and ancient weapons. The biggest challenges today are the restoration of the brick structures that are beginning to decay due to weather factors and the integration of the historical area with the modern urban planning of Lumajang city.

Cultural and Religious Significance

For the people of Lumajang, the Biting Site is not just an archaeological tourist attraction but a cultural identity. Every year, cultural processions are often held to commemorate past glories and honor ancestors. The tombs within the site remain pilgrimage destinations for people seeking spiritual connection with the figure of Menak Koncar.

Academically, the Biting Site provides evidence that urban systems in Java in the 13th century were highly advanced, with clear separation between military, administrative, and economic areas. The presence of ancient wells within the site also indicates a deep understanding of water resource management for a large population within the fortress.

Unique Facts and Conclusion

One unique fact that is rarely known is that the Biting Site has a system of "peepholes" and "trap" structures on its fortress walls, specifically designed for counter-attacks using arrows or spears. Furthermore, the chemical composition of the Biting red bricks shows the use of local materials mixed with a very strong natural adhesive, enabling them to withstand over 700 years of burial in humid conditions.

The Biting Site is a monument to the resilience of the Nusantara people in safeguarding sovereignty and building civilization. Through each layer of its bricks, we are invited to understand that Lumajang was once an epicenter of politics that shaped the course of great history in Java. Sustainable preservation is paramount so that future generations can continue to witness the traces of Lamajang Tigang Juru's greatness.