Ulun Danu Temple, on the western shore
of the lake, dramatic Pura Ulun Danu Bratan projects into the water. This
is the temple of the lake goddes who is much revered as a source of fertility.
Built by the king of Mengwi in 1633. it consists of four compounds, the
two outermost of which are completely surrounded by water.
When the three-tiered Siwaitic lingga petak was recently restored, the
builders discovered a bubbling spring and a big white stone flanked by
two red ones a phallic lingga representing the reproductive power of Siwa
as the god of fertility. Towering above this, on a separate islet, is
a single shrine of 11 roofs dedicated to Wisnu in his manifestation as
the lake goddess Dewi Danu. who protects all living creatures.
