Have you ever wondered about the echoes of ancient kingdoms? Welcome to Kesiman Kertalangu. Right before you stands a place steeped in history a village where the past whispers secrets to those who listen closely. Kesiman Kertalangu is more than just a village it’s a living testament to Bali’s rich heritage.
In 1343 the mighty Majapahit empire conquered Bali. The conquest led by Gajah Mada and Queen Tribhuwana brought significant change. To solidify their rule Majapahit under Hayam Wuruk sent Sri Aji Kresna Kepakisan. He established a palace in Samprangan present-day Gianyar. This was a pivotal moment for the island’s destiny.
Interestingly Sri Aji Kresna Kepakisan’s lineage is fascinating. He was the son of Soma Kepakisan and grandson of Danghyang Kepakisan. His uncle Danghyang Sidi Mantra from Kediri had a son Danghyang Manik Angkeran. Angkeran’s legacy extends to Besakih and Pura Batumadeg.
Now let’s return to Kesiman Kertalangu’s story. A descendant of Arya Wiraraja known as Arya Wang Bang Pinatih became a high-ranking official. He established the Puri Kertalangu palace. Its exact location is debated some believe it was near the current Balitex. Construction at Balitex revealed remnants suggesting its past glory.
Kesiman Kertalangu flourished as a kingdom starting in 1350. However by the 16th century it declined. The rulers and their families relocated to Tulikup then Sulang creating a new Puri there. The Puri Sulang remains a central place for the Arya Wang Bang Pinatih lineage.
Interestingly to govern the abandoned Kertalangu region Betara Sakti Pemecutan appointed Ngurah Pemayun. He built a new palace south of the old kingdom. To counter negative influences and maintain order a unique system was put in place. A long battleground called kalangan stretched from Patal Tohpati to Banjar Biaung. Each area along this line had brave warriors from various banjars. The Banjar names themselves Tohpati Kertajiwa Tangguntiti and Biaung reveal strategic significance.
Kesiman Kertalangu’s history is a tapestry of power struggles relocation and adaptation. The village evolved incorporating new banjars like Kertalangu and Kertapura in 1969. By the 17th century the rulers shifted their base to Petilan creating what became Desa Kesiman. The Kesiman Kertalangu we see today was officially established with a governor’s decree in 1982. This area also grew in population changing from four to eleven dusuns or banjars reflecting its continued growth and resilience. Now you stand looking at a place that has witnessed centuries of change. A village where the spirits of kings and warriors still resonate. Kesiman Kertalangu isn’t just a place it is a story a living story waiting for you to discover.