Klungkung Palace

Historical building complex, Klungkung Palace is located in Semarapura, Bali. The edifice, also known as Puri Agung Semarapura was constructed in 17th century. The palace witnessed severe damages during the 1908 Dutch colonial conquest but it was not fully damaged. The main remnants of the edifice are the Kertha Gosa Pavilion, the court of justice and main gate with date Saka 1622 (AD 1700). Some curious visitors also like to meet the descendants of the emperors who reigned over Klungkung, now living in Puri Agung, during their trip.

Origin of the Palace

During the period starting from late 17th century to 1908, the Klungkung kingdom was deemed as a very important kingdom amongst all the nine kingdoms of the island. It was Prince Dewa Agung Jambe I, who decided to build the palace/puri in the year 1986. Immediately after its construction, the palace started to be associated with prestige and importance in the island.

The palace had a square form and main gate was located on the north. The edifice was separated in multiple blocks and was also practically functional.

Kerta Gosa Pavilion, the Hall of Justice

Kertha Ghosa/ Kertha Gosa is a city notable for its art & painting, and music & dance. During the later years of the 18^{th century, the Kerta Gosa Pavilion, the hall of justice was built in the palace’s compound’s north-east corner.}

After the 1908 fight, the surviving members of the royal family were exiled and in 1929, they returned and made Puri Agung their abode. There is a museum near the palace where the history of Klungkung and the puputan is commemorated. A monument towards the north of the palace has also been built to pay tribute to the incident when several members of the royal family chose suicide over surrender.