The eight horses pulling the chariot represent the 'Asta Brata' philosophy, which outlines the eight leadership principles for Javanese kings.
Sculptor Nyoman Nuarta also designed the iconic Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue in Bali.
The statue underwent significant restoration in 2014 and 2015 due to weather erosion and structural fatigue.
The monument is often locally referred to as the 'Patung Kuda' (Horse Statue) by Jakarta residents.
The bronze composition weighs approximately 1.5 tons.
The chariot design reflects the battle scene from the Kurukshetra war in the Mahabharata.
The base of the statue incorporates a fountain system that is periodically reactivated during municipal maintenance cycles.
The Arjuna Wijaya Statue is a bronze monument depicting a scene from the Mahabharata epic featuring Arjuna and Krishna riding a chariot drawn by eight horses. Designed by sculptor Nyoman Nuarta, it was installed in 1987 to commemorate the 1987 general election. The monument serves as a central aesthetic landmark at the intersection of Jalan M.H. Thamrin and Jalan Medan Merdeka. It stands on a water basin that features fountain jets surrounding the base. The structure is situated in the administrative heart of Jakarta, near the National Monument. It is a public outdoor installation accessible to pedestrians.
From the pedestrian sidewalk on the corner near the Indosat building for an eye-level view of the horses.
Visit during the Car Free Day period on Sunday mornings when the surrounding traffic is diverted and the area becomes pedestrian-friendly.
The statue is located on an island in the middle of a major intersection; use designated crosswalks to reach the perimeter safely.
Attempting to cross the busy multi-lane roundabout on foot during weekday rush hours.
