 Tikus Temple (the 'rat temple') is located about 500 meters south east
of Bajang Ratu Temple. Precisely located in Temon village, Trowulan
district, Mojokerto regency, sized 16 m length, 16 m width, and 3,5 m
height. Restored to its present condition between the years 1985 and
1989, the site comprises the remains of an ancient ritual bathing place
(petirtaan) dating from Majapahit period.
The principal building
originally consisted of two terraces, upon which a concentric
arrangement of 'turrets' surrounded the highest part of the structure,
located in the centre. This form may be seen to reflect that of the holy
Mt Mahameru of Hindu mythology, from which is believed to spring the
elixir of immortality. The unusual name of this temple is connected with
the circumstances of its discovery in 1914. At that time, apparently,
the neighborhood was experiencing a plague of rats. Each time efforts
were made to exterminate them, however, the creatures would disappear
down a hole in a small hillock. On the order of the old regent of
Mojokerto, Kromojoyo Adinegoro, the mound was consequently excavated
with the purpose of destroying the rats' nest. The result was the
discovery of one of Trowulan's most important archaeological sites.
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