Certainly! One of the oldest and most revered temples in Bali is Besakih Temple (Balinese: Pura Besakih). Let me share some fascinating details about it:
- Location: Besakih Temple is situated in the village of Besakih on the slopes of Mount Agung in eastern Bali, Indonesia.
- Significance: It is the most important, largest, and holiest temple of Balinese Hinduism. Often referred to as the “Mother Temple,” it holds a special place in the hearts of the Balinese people.
- Complex Structure: Besakih Temple consists of 23 separate but related temples. The main and most significant one is called Pura Penataran Agung.
- Architecture: The temple is built on six levels, terraced up the slope. As you ascend, you’ll encounter stepped terraces, flights of stairs, and brick gateways leading to the central spire (Meru). The entire design aims to connect the spiritual seeker with the sacred mountain.
- History: While the precise origins of Besakih Temple remain unclear, its importance as a holy site likely dates back to prehistoric times. The stone bases of Pura Penataran Agung and other temples resemble megalithic stepped pyramids, suggesting an ancient heritage. By the 15th century, Besakih had become a state temple of the powerful Gelgel dynasty.
- Miraculous Survival: In 1963, during a series of eruptions from Mount Agung, the lava flows came perilously close to Besakih Temple. However, the temple complex miraculously survived by mere meters. The Balinese people saw this as a sign from the gods, demonstrating their power without destroying the monument erected by the faithful. Approximately 1,700 people lost their lives during those eruptions.
Besakih Temple’s enduring presence and spiritual significance make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Bali’s rich cultural heritage! 🌸🕉️
If you’d like to explore more ancient temples in Bali, another notable one is Pura Lempuyang Luhur, which lies at an impressive 1,175 meters above sea level on the peak of Mount Lempuyang in East Bal. 🌅
