Sea of Sand: The area surrounding Mount Bromo is known as the Sea of Sand, a vast plain covered in volcanic ash. The Sea of Sand stretches for about 10 square kilometers and is surrounded by steep cliffs and mountains.
Viewpoints: There are several viewpoints on Mount Penanjakan, a nearby mountain, where visitors can watch the sunrise over Mount Bromo and the surrounding landscape. The most popular viewpoint is located at an altitude of 2,770 meters and provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire area.
Cultural Significance: Mount Bromo is considered a sacred site by the local Tenggerese people, who hold an annual Kasada Festival to honor the volcano and the spirits that inhabit it. The festival takes place on the 14th day of the Kasada month in the Javanese calendar (usually in July or August) and involves offerings of food, livestock, and other goods thrown into the crater as a symbol of gratitude and respect.
The history of Mount Bromo is closely tied to the history of the Tenggerese people, who are the indigenous inhabitants of the area. The Tenggerese people are believed to be descendants of the Majapahit Kingdom, which ruled over Java from the 13th to the 16th century.
According to local legend, the Tenggerese people were expelled from the nearby mountains by the ruling king and sought refuge in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, where they established their own community. Over time, the Tenggerese people developed their own culture, language, and religion, which is a unique blend of Hinduism and animism.
Mount Bromo itself has a long history of volcanic activity, with the first recorded eruption occurring in 1804. Since then, there have been several major eruptions, including in 1919, 1928, and 2010. The 2010 eruption caused widespread damage and forced the evacuation of thousands of people from the surrounding areas.
Despite the volcanic activity, the Tenggerese people have continued to live in the area and maintain a close relationship with the volcano and the surrounding landscape. The annual Kasada Festival, which is held to honor the spirits that inhabit the volcano, is a testament to the enduring cultural significance of Mount Bromo for the Tenggerese people.[am]
