Temple sights in Bali
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Pura Maospahit
Established in the 14th century, at the time the Majapahit arrived from Java, this temple was damaged in a 1917 earthquake and has been heavily restored since. The oldest structures are at the back of the temple, but the most interesting features are the large statues of Garuda and the giant Batara Bayu.
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B
Pura Gegar
Just south of Gegar Beach is a bluff with a good cafe and a path that leads up to Pura Gegar, a compact temple shaded by gnarled old trees. Views are great and you can spy on swimmers who've come south in the shallow, placid waters around the bluff for a little frolic.
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Pura Ulun Danu Bratan
This very important Hindu-Buddhist temple was founded in the 17th century. It is dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of the waters, and is actually built on small islands, which means it is completely surrounded by the lake. Pilgrimages and ceremonies are held here to ensure that there is a supply of water for farmers all over Bali.
The tableau includes classical Hindu thatch-roofed meru reflected in the water and silhouetted against the often cloudy mountain backdrop – a classic Bali photo opportunity. A large banyan tree shades the entrance, and you walk through manicured gardens and past an impressive Buddhist stupa to reach the lakeside.
There's a bit of a sideshow…
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C
Pura Ulun Siwi
The temple Pura Ulun Siwi dates from the 18th century. It is different from other Balinese temples in that it faces east, rather than north to Gunung Agung. It's thought this is because the site dates back to the 11th century when Java's Mt Semeru was still the focus of local piety. Look for farmers collecting water here to bless their fields: the anti-rodent powers are considered especially strong.
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D
Pura Jagatnatha
Next to the museum, the state temple, built in 1953, is dedicated to the supreme god, Sanghyang Widi. Part of its significance is its statement of monotheism. Although the Balinese recognise many gods, the belief in one supreme god(who can have many manifestations)brings Balinese Hinduism into conformity with the first principle of Pancasila – the 'Belief in One God'.
The padmasana (shrine) is made of white coral, and consists of an empty throne (symbolic of heaven) on top of the cosmic turtle and two naga (mythical serpents), which symbolise the foundation of the world. The walls are decorated with carvings of scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Two major festivals…
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