Taman Sari was built three years after Giyanti Agreement (1755) took place. Sultan Hamengku Buwono I just went through years of guerrilla warfare. Therefore, he wanted to create a place for rest and relaxation, as well as a retreat. The presence of a religious site called Sumur Gumuling in the complex supports the latter possibility.
Some also said that the Sultan built Taman Sari as a token of gratitude towards his queen, who had been an obedient companion during the hardships of war.
Apart from the above reasons, Taman Sari also functioned as a fortress or a mean to face any threat or danger.
