[1] The Gedong Songo complex is one of 110 sites in central Java with Hindu temple structures or remains, and one of 21 in Semarang area, states Veronique Degroot.

Gedong Songo I is the oldest, with a square plan – an architecture that is predominant in Hindu and Buddhist-Hindu sites of central Java.

However, the Gedong Songo II through V temples are unusual and among the notable exceptions, as they have a square sanctum, but the plinth base has been extended for a porch, which gives it a rectangular shape.

One hypothesis, supported by Jordaan, states that Indian artisans and architects were invited to Java, who then inspired the traditions and schools here.

The other hypothesis, supported by Bosch, states that Javanese pilgrims went to India between the 7th and 8th-century, they saw the temples there and then created a version best suited to the materials and terrain in Java.

It is unclear which of these, and other variant conjectures, may be true and the historic trajectory of the central Javanese temple architecture remains contested.