Taman Ayun Temple is considered one of the most beautiful religious structures in Bali. It was built in 1634 to honor the divine ancestors of the Mengwi dynasty, so it is sometimes called the “family temple”.
It is located in a wonderful park, among trees and small lakes, just a few minutes' drive from Denpasar, the capital of Bali. In 1937, Taman Ayun underwent a major restoration, and this benefited it, since half a millennium had quite noticeably affected the temple's appearance.
Several pagodas rise above the inner courtyard, symbolizing Mount Meru, which is a sacred symbol of Hinduism, the center of all universes, and indeed of all existence. The temple complex includes several buildings, various towers, fountains, and a picturesque garden. Nine jets of water gush from the fountain, each representing a particular Balinese deity.
Everything in the temple is imbued with religious symbolism, but perhaps even the Balinese themselves can no longer explain the meaning of some of the symbols. Nevertheless, this in no way diminishes the atmosphere of mysticism and historical significance that lingers everywhere here. The temple is very beautiful in itself, even without the religious undercurrent. It lives up to its name, which literally means “temple in the garden”: everywhere here there is greenery, water, and life in its most beautiful manifestations.
