The sultan's palace (kraton) was formerly surrounded by an ensemble of residential buildings equipped with gardens, stables and barracks to house staff and courtiers. The entire complex was enclosed by a wall with four openings. Today this district characterised by little streets lined with low-lying white houses is like a village in the heart of the city. Its friendly inhabitants, bird market, and batik and painting studios add to its charm. As well as the kraton itself, the walled-in heart of this royal city, the district boasts a second palace, Taman Sari.