The Water Palace in Karang Asem, Bali

post from Indonesia Vacations on 04 July 2009 11:05:48 AM. © Indonesia Vacations

The Water Palace in Karang Asem, Bali

If you love history, art and culture, one interesting information that you need to know is the cultural heritage in Karangasem regency, the eastern part of Bali.

Water Palace in Karang Asem located in 5 kilometers away to the south from Amlapura (the capital of Karangasem), these is the famous Water Palace. It is the 12- hectare water palace complex with astounding architectures and cultural jewel. That is surrounded by a rich decorated fence.

The palace was designed and constructed under the patronage and protection of Karang Asem?s last king, Anak Agung Gurah Ketut Karang Asem, in 1926. The last King is a learned and well-travelled man. In constructing the Water Palace in Karang Asem, he adopted the Versailles Palace model in France. He blended traditional motifs with modern materials, and balanced Western style geometry with a Balinese sense of place and symbolism.

The Water Palace in Karang Asem was originally intended as a meeting place and guesthouse for delegates of the Dutch government and other countries? dignitaries visiting Bali. There are three large pavilions floating above a serene lotus pond. These three pavilions are connected by bridges, creating a very romantic atmosphere. The wide windows of the pavilions are facing the palace, testimony to the late ruler?s passion for harmonizing nature and art.

From the highest point in the park, we can see a marvelous view over the distant Lombok strait and the lush green hills of MT. Rinjani in Lombok. While from the north, a breathtaking panorama of rice terraces set against the backdrop of the mighty Mt.Agung is an amazing view that you don?t want to miss.

Unfortunately, the eruption of Mount Agung in 1963 and the earthquake in 1975 had caused severe damage to the palace. Because of the future of Bali?s rich art and cultural heritage lies in its past, an intensive restoration work was carried out from 2000 to 2004 by members of the Karang Asem court.

Thanks to this great effort, one of Bali?s finest examples of its cultural heritage has been saved.

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