5 Astonishing Facts of Bali`s Garuda Wisnu Kencana Statue

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) statue, which was introduced to the public on Saturday, September 22, is located at Bukit Ungasan in Badung regency, Bali. 

There are numerous elements that showcase the outstanding attempts by its creator, Nyoman Nuarta, but here are the five special facts about Bali’s latest landmark. 

1. World’s third tallest 

Garuda Wisnu Kencana’s 121 meter-tall structure is considered to be the third tallest structure in the world after the Spring Temple Buddha, which boasts an astonishing height of 153 meters, and Myanmar’s Laykyun Sekkya Buddha with 135 meters. GWK’s wingspan measures at 65 meters. 

2. 120 artists and Rp450 Billion 

Nyoman Nuarta is the mastermind and initiator of the Garuda Wisnu Kencana. However, 120 artists were involved in GWK's construction, costing a total of Rp450 billion. 

Read: Bali`s Giant Garuda Wisnu Kencana Statue Unaffected by Earthquake

3. 3,000 tons of copper and bronze pieces

The statue itself is made of 3,000 tons of copper and bronze slabs to reach its current height. 

4. 28 years in the making 

GWK's construction lasted for 28 years after it was designed back in 1990 by Nyoman Nuarta under the auspices of then tourism minister Joop Ave. The groundbreaking event of the statue’s construction took place 1997, while the last piece to be placed onto the gigantic artwork was at its tail, which is located at the highest point of the statue, completing a total of 754 moduls.

5. Earthquake-proof 

The Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue combines the elements of art, technology, and science considering that GWK’s structure is designed to withstand storms and earthquakes that have unfortunately happened numerous times in Bali and its vicinity.

TEMPO.CO