Alun-Alun is a Javanese term for a large open field (square) common to most cities in Indonesia. In Yogyakarta, the term is divided into Alun-alun Utara (Keraton North Square) and Alun-alun Selatan (Keraton South Square). Alun-alun Utara is the open square located north of Keraton Yogyakarta. During the past, Alun-alun Utara functioned as the primary and most official entrance to the kraton, but nowadays it functions as the centre for public spectacles, court celebrations and general non-court entertainment.

Befor the 1980s, the square was surrounded with a tall wall, before it was removed, leaving just the eastern side covered with wall. And with modern civilization, the pathway towards the centre of the field has been paved in asphalt. The most famous feature of the North Squre is the two fenced Banyan Trees standing in the middle of the field. Because of the fence, people commonly address them as “Waringin Sengkeran” or “Caged Banyan Trees”. In the times of the late Sultan, only the high rank officials and regents are allowed to pass or walk through the caged trees. Low rank officials, moreover common residents are only allowed to walk around the cage.

Nowadays, the North square is still used to host celebrations and ceremonial events, such as sekaten and the grebeg ceremony.

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