[1] This royal palace was built after the Treaty of Salatiga was signed by Mangkunegara I, Hamengkubuwana I, Pakubuwana III, and the VOC in March 1757.

Like any other palaces in Java, The Pura Mangkunegaran had experienced several renovations, rejuvenation, changes in its parts and structures, and also the addition of popular European style to its architecture during the Dutch colonization.

The second gate of the Pura Mangkunegaran leads to the inner courtyard and the Grand Hall (Pendopo Ageng) which measures 3,500 m2 (37,673.69 sq ft).

The bright color of the Grand Hall ceiling symbolizes Hindu-Javanese astrology which is closely attached to the culture of the Mataram dynasty.

In the early era of the Duchy of Mangkunegaran, people who attended the Grand Hall usually sat cross-legged on the floor.

[4] Behind the Grand Hall, there is an open veranda called Pringgitan which has stairs that leads to the main house (Dalem Ageng).

This part of the Pura Mangkunegaran has a garden with various plants, flowers, ornamental shrubs, bird cages, a fountain pool, and some classical European-style statues.