In the corner of the metropolitan city of Jakarta, there is an area that has high historical value as well as a popular tourist spot, called Kota Tua.
The number of old colonial-style buildings that are still standing gives the impression of going back to the past. Therefore, do not be surprised if holidays or weekends arrive, this area is always crowded with visitors.
If we feel bored with tourist destinations in the form of amusement parks and natural attractions, there is nothing wrong with visiting tourist attractions that are full of historical value every now and then.
Even though it is in the middle of the hustle and bustle of Jakarta, Kota Tua is full of the old Jakarta atmosphere. This area is always crowded with visitors every day. There are visitors who are local and foreign tourists.
When visiting tourist attractions in Jakarta on this one, there are many things you can explore. There is the Fatahilah Museum which witnesses the history of the nation’s struggle for independence. Then there is the Red Building, Wayang Museum, Bank Indonesia Museum, Maritime Museum and Sunda Kelapa Harbor.
Originally founded by Dutch colonialists, Kota Tua was designed as a trading center in Asia. The city of Jakarta, which at that time was called Batavia, became the center of trade from within and outside the country through the shipping route.
History of Kota Tua
In 1526, Fatahillah was sent by the Sultanate of Demak to attack the port of Sunda Kelapa which belonged to the Pajajaran kingdom. After being controlled by Demak, this port changed its name to Jayakarta.
In 1619, VOC troops under the command of Jan Pieterszoon Coen destroyed Jayakarta. After being controlled by the VOC, in 1620 the VOC built a new city called Batavia.
In 1635, Batavia expanded to the west bank of the Ciliwung River. Batavia was designed in the European Dutch style and arranged in blocks separated by canals. Batavia was completed in 1650 and later functioned as the VOC headquarters in the East Indies.
During the World War II-era at the Japanese occupation in 1942, Batavia changed its name to Jakarta and became the capital of Indonesia to this day.
In 1972, Governor Ali Sadikin issued a governor’s decree to make the Old City a cultural heritage site. This was done to protect the architectural history of the area.
Travel Tips in Kota Tua
When taking a walk in the tourist area of Kota Tua Jakarta, there are several suggestions that we should pay attention to. Some of them, like the following.
- In order not to be too crowded, come on weekdays.
- If you come on the weekend, come early so you can take photos freely.
- Always be on the lookout for luggage. Because this area is always busy, the potential for pickpocketing is quite large.
- Wear comfortable clothes and avoid wearing dark-colored clothes. Because this area is known to be very hot. If possible bring a fan or small electric fan.
- Don’t forget to use sunscreen to protect your skin from direct sunburn.
Information:
Name: Kota Tua Jakarta
Address: Taman Fatahillah 1 street, Kota Tua, Pinangsia, Tamansari, West Jakarta, Jakarta
Open: 24 hours
