Bali's history
Dioramas from prehistory to independence.
Anandajoti — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Anandajoti — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Anandajoti — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Anandajoti — CC BY-SA 4.0
A grand monument in the green Renon square of Denpasar, Bali's capital, honouring the island people's struggles through history, from the old kingdoms and resistance to Dutch colonial rule to independence. It is shaped like a Balinese priest's bell and surrounded by a moat and broad gardens where locals come to stroll and exercise. Inside is a museum telling Bali's story in small illustrated dioramas, tracing history from prehistory to modern times, then a spiral staircase to a terrace at the top overlooking all of Denpasar and, on clear days, the mountains. It is one of the few sights in Bali that tells its political rather than religious history. Entry is about one hundred thousand rupiah for foreign adults and about fifty thousand for children. The square around it is free and fills with families and vendors on Sunday evenings. Bali's tourist levy, one hundred and fifty thousand rupiah per foreign visitor, is separate. An hour is enough, and the museum suits midday or a rainy day. Denpasar itself is close to Sanur, so the two fit into one outing.
Dioramas from prehistory to independence.
Views over Denpasar and the mountains.
Gardens loved by locals.
Renon, Denpasar, Bali's capital
For understanding Bali's history beyond the temples, yes, and it is a good refuge on a rainy day. If you are after nature and beaches, others come first.