Solo. The royal court of Kasunanan Surakarta Hadiningrat is in mourning following the death of King Paku Buwono XIII, who passed away at the age of 77 on Sunday morning.

According to information gathered from palace officials, the king died at Indriati Hospital in Solo Baru, Sukoharjo Regency, after receiving medical treatment for several days.

Palace spokesperson Dani Nur Adiningrat confirmed the news in a brief message.

As of Sunday afternoon, the palace had not announced official details regarding funeral arrangements. However, based on Surakarta court tradition, Javanese monarchs are typically buried at Astana Imogiri, the royal cemetery of the Mataram Islamic dynasty, located in the hills of Bantul, Yogyakarta.

Paku Buwono XIII ascended to the throne on September 10, 2004, though his coronation was marked by internal disputes within the royal household. His younger brother, Tedjo Wulan, also declared himself king at the time, resulting in a period of “dual kingship.” The conflict was eventually resolved through mediation by Solo Mayor Joko “Jokowi” Widodo, who later became president of Indonesia.

While internal tensions occasionally resurfaced over the years, the Surakarta Palace has enjoyed relative stability over the past decade.

King Paku Buwono XIII is remembered as a steadfast guardian of Javanese tradition and culture, known for his dedication to preserving the royal court’s customs and rituals.

At the Surakarta Palace on Sunday, the atmosphere remained solemn but orderly. A few abdi dalem -- palace courtiers -- were seen moving quietly in and out of the main gate as journalists gathered outside to report on the passing of the monarch.

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