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The former seat of the Javanese Hindu kingdom in Bali, from where Balinese royalty draws its bloodline, Klungkung was the oldest kingdom on the island and its Raja the most exalted. Kertagosa, the Hall of Justice, built in the 18th century, is known for its ceiling murals painted in the traditional Wayang style portraying punishment in hell and rewards in heaven and other moral aspects. The floating pavilion, garden and lotus ponds in the walled complex, located on the main intersection of town, are a reminder of the former glory of this kingdom. |
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Sacred Tirta Empul spring at Tampak Siring was created by god Indra when he pierced the earth to create a spring of Amerta, the elixir of immortality. The bathing place was built in the 10th century. The waters are imbued with magical curative powers. People journey from all over Bali to purify themselves in the clear pools, especially pregnant women and those who have survived a long illness. After leaving a small offering of thanks to the spring's deity, men and women go to opposite sides to bathe. |
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The region between the Pakerisan and the Petanu Rivers, containing nearly 50 ancient temples, forms a natural replica of the Hindu-Balinese cosmos. The area, called Pejeng, naturally became the sites of some of the earliest kingdoms on Bali. One of the attractions here is Pura Penataran Sasih, which houses a giant bronze kettledrum, "Moon of Pejeng", of unknown age and origin. Also in the area is the 14th century temple Pura Pusering Jagat, with unusual architecture, standing under a massive banyan tree. Its name means "Naval of the World". |
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A beautiful locale with a natural inclination to the arts, Ubud was home to the first foreigners from Europe in the 1930-s artists seeking inspiration within their surroundings. Ubud is a center for artist, surrounded by souvenir outlets, quaint cafes and accommodations. Neighboring villages such as Peliatan and Campuhan have been absorbed into Ubud's sprawl. Ubud comes from the word 'ubad', Balinese for medicine, stemming from the healing properties of a herb growing near the Campuhan River. Ubud's Yayasan Bina Wisata tourism foundation aims to preserve the area's natural and cultural beauty, striving to unify both visitor's and local's need. |
Synonymous with silver and goldsmiths, Celuk's art shops beckon visitors with sterling silver and gold, gem-studded bracelets and earrings. Balinese smiths is largely and art passed down in family. Visitor may observe workshops, which are often small rooms or work areas with five to 20 workers, some not even in their teens. Many fine jewelers dwell here off the beaten track.
Mas village is best known for its intricate woodcarvings and masks. The historical importance of Mas should not be overlooked. Its inhabitants are primarily Brahmans, the priestly caste, tracing their roots to Danghyang Nirartha the founder of the village's Pura Taman Pule. |
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