The iconic Puputan Badung Monument, now famously known as Puputan Badung Square I Gusti Ngurah Made Agung, stands proudly in the heart of Denpasar, just in front of the Bali Museum. Positioned on the northern side of Puputan Square, this monument marks the historic battleground of the Puputan Badung War in 1906 when the Dutch invaded Denpasar. The term “puputan” signifies a fight to the finish.
Therefore, this monument stands as a poignant reminder and tribute to the Balinese people who engaged in an all-out war against the Dutch to defend their honor and dignity. During that fateful event, no less than four thousand people, including the royal family of Denpasar, lost their lives. Today, the Puputan Badung Monument silently witnesses the recreational activities of the Denpasar community, who gather at Puputan Square every evening, turning it into a vibrant hub of social life.
History of Puputan Badung Square
The spirit of puputan ignited. Falling for the sake of truth and the honor of the country was heaven for them. Although armed only with traditional weapons, the people stood together against the Dutch military equipped with modern weapons. The 7th King of Badung led the war himself from 1902 to 1906. He fell alongside the people.
Despite the imbalance in the number of royal and opposing soldiers, King Badung at that time, I Gusti Ngurah Made Agung, along with the people, did not fear facing the colonial power.
The war actually took place from 1902 until it culminated in 1906. At that time, the Dutch East Indies government believed that by conquering the Kingdom of Badung, they would effectively control the entire island of Bali.
Puputan, which means a fierce battle in Balinese, took place on September 20, 1906, between the Netherlands and the Kingdom of Badung, known as the Puputan Badung War.
Bali carved a heroic and dramatic history of the people’s struggle. The Balinese people fought and defended Indonesia’s independence. They engaged in the puputan!
A perfect choice. Because you and your family not only get a fun and relaxing recreation but also explore historical tourism. Curious, right?
Denpasar is an urban area with cool public spaces. You and your family can choose a safe recreation spot without worrying about cleanliness. Yes, one of them is Puputan Badung Square on Surapati Street, the intersection of Denpasar’s point zero, Catur Muka.
As a historical reminder, on November 12, 1997, the government erected the Puputan Badung Monument. This monument consists of three statues, representing a woman, a man, and a child dressed in all white, holding a keris (dagger) and a spear as weapons for battle. Common people simply call it Puputan Badung Square. That’s the brief history of this field.
If you have some extra time or arrive early around 09:00 AM, you can visit the Bali Museum and Jagadnatha Temple near this field.
Around the field, there is a children’s playground, park benches for adults, a skateboard area, roller skates, a jogging track, fitness area, and an art performance location to the south.
No entrance ticket is required. Just pay a parking fee of Rp 1,000 for two-wheeled vehicles and Rp 2,000 for four-wheeled vehicles. However, it’s essential to park properly to avoid your vehicle being towed or locked by officials for violations.
In addition to its heroic history, Puputan Badung Square also serves as a city park or green open space. Anyone is free to use it for recreation and sports.
Read also: Ulun Danu Beratan: Bali’s Majestic Temple
