Kota Gede

Kota Gede (Literally “Big City”) is a separate town built during the Islamic Mataram Kingdom, but that has now been absorbed inside the main city of Yogyakrta.

Refined colonial buildings mixed with traditional Javanese houses are hosting the most known center of Silver smiths in the region, making Kota Gede a renowned location to go hunting for a good deal or just browsing through windows of refined jewelry.
Kota Gede is also known for its Royal Cemetery, a big compound featuring Hindu Architectural details but strangely housing the graves of the Islamic forefathers. Before accessing the sacred area, take your time to explore the intricate courtyard.

Access to the cemetery is allowed only during the very limited opening time, so you better plan accordingly. Wearing a traditional Javanese dress, available for rent after donation at the entrance, is mandatory.
For those who have a sweet tooth, in Kota Gede there is the famous Monggo chocolate factory where it is possible to taste local delicacies. Strangely, while Indonesia is the second largest producer of cocoa, finding chocolate is usually quite rare and expensive. Other points of interest in Kota Gede are the traditional market and the remains of the Mataram fort and Palace, witnesses of the past glory of this Kingdom.