The Palaeogeographic Evolution of the Wonosobo Volcanic Area and Its Impacts on Ancient Life in the Cradle of the Javanese Civilization

This paper investigates the palaeogeographic evolution of the Wonosobo Volcanic Area (WVA) of Central Java, Indonesia and its impact on ancient human life beginning from the Ancient Mataram era of the seventh-eighth centuries. Primary observations conducted across nine zones of three distinct volcano units were cross-referenced with existing geological and topographical maps and relevant secondary literature to create a chronology of landform evolution. Traces of past life were found spread throughout the WVA. In the Sundoro Stratovolcano area, which was still experiencing activity in the time of Ancient Mataram, volcanic eruptions were disastrous, with evidence of at least one settlement buried. But in the Sumbing and Dieng Volcanic Complex areas, which have been inactive for two-three centuries, the impact of volcanism on human life is not as apparent. Instead, the denudation process, exacerbated by the climate conditions, is more influential, as evidenced by various archaeological relics that are buried in alluvial material. This study provides alternative information about the contribution of natural factors in influencing the dynamics of life in Ancient Mataram. This study also offers new insights into the influence of palaeogeographic changes on human-environment interaction on a long temporal scale.