A must-see event for those who are visiting Bali for the first time is the Barong and Kris Dance, the traditional Balinese and Javanese dance, one of the best-known and most beloved of the island. A page with an explanation of the various acts is given to spectators at the start of the show in various languages to facilitate the understanding of this complex drama with its synchronised and hypnotic dancing, representing life itself, with it colourful costumes and harmonious femminine movements, depicting the eternal battle between good and evil. There is Barong, the “good” character, symbol of virtual, resembling a lion, its costume of thick white fur, adorned with golden jewellery and pieces of mirror and there is the “Queen of Demons”, Rangda (widow in Javanese), head of an army of evil witches who wants to control the world. Male dancers fight with kris knives and, upon the appearance of Barong, they stab themselves and enter into a sort of trance, then being reincarnated and sprinkling holy water throughout the space. At this point, Rangda is defeated and the natural order is re-established. Costumed musicians sit on the side of the stage, accompanying this whirlwind of movements of masks and colours with the sound of the “gamelan”. Barong performances can be found all around Bali but the most popular take place in the village of Batu Bulan in the district of Gianyar, or in Kesiman, Denpasar.
On the hills of Bali, Ubud stands on the edge of the tropical forest and terraced rice fields dotted with Hindu temples and shrines, among the most famous on the island.
Pura Sada Kapal: the temple that changes for faith and for the ages
The vicissitudes linked to its destruction due to an earthquake and its reconstruction due to the faith of the inhabitants of the village in which it is located, make it a place with a fascinating and unique history and appearance.
Chinese New Year welcomes the arrival of the Year of the Dragon
Although predominantly Hindu, Bali is home to an important Chinese community which on the occasion of the New Year organizes uniquely aesthetic events with a mix of Chinese traditions, Balinese charm and fusion cuisine.
Natural pigments & dyes in Balinese traditional crafts
Colors play a vital role in Balinese culture and identity: they are symbolic and their origins are sacred. Traditional Balinese arts and crafts arise from the interconnection between man, the forces of nature and the cosmos, resulting in a divine unity.
An Emperor’s Jewel - The Making of the Bvlgari Hotel Roma
A new movie starring Bvlgari Global Brand Ambassador Priyanka Choora Jonas and produced by Atomic Production and directed by Andrea Rovetta, gives viewers an unprecedented view of Bvlgari Hotel Roma, taking them behind the scenes to discover the craftsmanship and culture that inspired the property.