Pura Maospahit is a temple on Jl. Sutomo in the Dauh Puri Kangin district of central Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia. Its name refers to the Majapahit kingdom of East Java, which extended its influence over Bali in the 14th century and whose nobles and priests brought many of the cultural and religious forms now associated with Balinese Hinduism. Local tradition holds that the temple's origins date to that Majapahit-influenced period, which makes it one of the older sacred sites in the modern city, although the structures seen today are the result of later rebuilding. The temple is notable for its red-brick construction, which differs from the pale carved stone used in most south Bali temples and recalls the brick temples of East Java such as those of the Majapahit capital at Trowulan. The tall split and roofed gateways are decorated with carved guardian faces, including Bhoma and Kala figures, and with reliefs of mythological scenes. The inner courtyard contains multi-tiered shrines and pavilions used for rites. Much of the temple was damaged by the large earthquake that struck Bali in 1917 and was rebuilt in the following years, so the present fabric combines older motifs with 20th-century reconstruction. The temple is a place of active worship by local families and the surrounding community, rather than a museum, and is generally open to view from outside through much of the day. Visitors may enter the outer area in appropriate dress, but the inner sanctum is normally reserved for worshippers during ceremonies. There is no ticket, and a donation is customary. The temple sits in a dense urban setting near Jl. Gajah Mada, and can be added to a walking route with Puri Pemecutan, the Bali Museum and Pura Jagatnatha. Modest clothing, a sash and quiet behaviour are expected.
| Admission | Free; donation customary |
|---|---|
| Hours | Exterior viewable most of the day |
| Address | Jl. Sutomo, Dauh Puri Kangin, Denpasar |
Why it matters
Pura Maospahit is traditionally regarded as one of Denpasar's oldest temples, reflecting the Javanese Majapahit influence that shaped Balinese Hindu culture after the 14th-century conquest of Bali. Its red-brick architecture is a rare surviving example of that style in the city.
Location
Jl. Sutomo, Dauh Puri Kangin, Denpasar
-8.6599, 115.2198 View on map
Highlights
- Distinctive red-brick gateways in an East Java-influenced style
- Carved Bhoma and Kala guardian faces on the gate
- Multi-tiered shrines and pavilions in the inner courtyard
- Traditional link with the Majapahit era in Bali
Tips for visiting
- Wear a sarong and sash; borrowing them is usually possible for a small donation.
- Photograph the brick gateway from the street in morning light.
- Avoid entering the inner area during ceremonies.
- Add the temple to a walk with Puri Pemecutan and the Bali Museum.
When to visit
Morning light is best for the brickwork, and ceremony days offer atmosphere but restricted entry.
Accessibility
The gateways have steps and raised thresholds, so wheelchair access to the inner courtyard is limited; the exterior can be viewed from the street.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the temple called Maospahit?
The name refers to the Majapahit kingdom of Java, whose influence over Bali from the 14th century shaped Balinese Hindu art and architecture.
Can visitors enter the temple?
The outer area can often be entered with proper dress, but the inner sanctum is generally for worshippers, especially during ceremonies.
How long does a visit take?
About 15 to 30 minutes is typical for the exterior and gateways.
Is there an entrance fee?
No fee is charged, though a donation is customary.