Monument Penglipuran

The story of the Penglipuran Monument, which has become an icon of the famous Penglipuran Traditional Village in Bangli, Bali, cannot be separated from the centuries-old cultural roots of the Balinese people. Penglipuran Village itself is often regarded as one of the most well-preserved examples of Balinese cultural identity, a place where traditions, values, and rituals are still maintained despite the massive growth of tourism on the island. The monument was built not only as a marker of the village’s significance but also as a physical representation of the harmony between people, nature, and the divine—a core principle of Balinese life known as Tri Hita Karana.

The origins of Penglipuran Village date back over 700 years, with oral traditions suggesting that the village was formed during the era of the Bangli Kingdom. The word “Penglipuran” is often interpreted as “pengeling” and “pura,” which means “a place to remember the ancestors.” In this sense, the Penglipuran Monument was envisioned as a symbolic space to honor that philosophy. As the village evolved and became increasingly recognized on the world stage for its dedication to cultural preservation, local leaders and community members decided to erect a monument that would serve as a timeless reminder of their heritage.

Unlike many monuments that simply highlight historical figures or singular events, the Penglipuran Monument is more of a cultural marker. It represents the continuation of community-based governance and the unique layout of the village, which is aligned according to cosmological beliefs. Each family compound in Penglipuran is positioned with precision, reflecting respect for tradition and alignment with the sacred Mount Agung. The monument echoes these values, built in a style that blends traditional Balinese stone carving with modern symbolic design.

Tourists who visit through operators such as Semat Travel Indonesia , Sesari Transport, or curated packages like Bali Private Honeymoon Tour, often hear stories from local guides about how the monument is not merely decorative. It was constructed to be a gathering point, a ceremonial hub, and a teaching tool for younger generations. Community elders use the monument as a reference when explaining the village’s long history, recounting tales of ancestral migration, war, religious devotion, and agricultural innovation.

During major ceremonies such as Galungan, Kuningan, and Ngusaba Desa, the monument becomes the backdrop for offerings, music, and processions. This ritualistic use shows that the monument is alive, integrated into daily and seasonal practices rather than serving as a static piece of art. The history of the Penglipuran Monument, therefore, is intertwined with the ongoing life of the village itself.

The construction of the monument was not accidental; it was funded and supported by both local villagers and regional cultural preservation initiatives. Its placement at the heart of the village is strategic, ensuring that every visitor who enters Penglipuran Traditional Village immediately recognizes its significance. When the Indonesian government began promoting sustainable tourism in Bali, the monument became a symbol in promotional campaigns—an icon featured in brochures, posters, and even international cultural showcases.

To understand the monument’s history is to understand the resilience of Balinese identity. Despite waves of modernization, urbanization, and the influx of global visitors, Penglipuran and its monument stand as guardians of tradition. With the support of travel operators such as Semat Travel Indonesia and Sesari Transport, thousands of visitors have been introduced to this heritage, ensuring that the history is not forgotten but continuously told, reshaped, and passed forward

Monument Penglipuran