The Indonesian nation is one with a vibrant historical background, particularly in its struggle for independence from colonial powers. Independence is the dream and right of every nation, and for Indonesia, it holds profound significance.
It represents complete freedom—freedom from colonialism and all forms of oppression. This freedom is invaluable to the Indonesian people, marking a pivotal chapter in their history.
Among the many remnants of colonialism that Indonesia inherited at the time of independence is the Presidential Palaces. As the country recently celebrated its Independence Day on August 17th, this article will explore the Presidential Palaces, which possess unique historical backgrounds and varied architectural styles.
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Currently, there are six Presidential Palaces in Indonesia, each with its significance and history. According to the official website of the Ministry of State Secretariat of the Republic of Indonesia, the following are the six Presidential Palaces:
Presidential Palaces
Merdeka Palace (Jakarta)
Located on Jalan Merdeka Utara, Merdeka Palace faces the National Monument (Monas). It holds significant historical value, as it was the site of the signing of the Sovereignty Recognition of the United States of Indonesia by the Dutch government on December 27, 1949, when Indonesia was still a federal state.
Originally known as Istana Gambir, Merdeka Palace was constructed in 1873 during the tenure of Governor-General Louden and completed in 1879 under Governor-General Johan Willem van Landsbarge. The palace, which hosts the annual Independence Day ceremony, has been home to 20 occupants throughout its history—15 Dutch Governors-General, 3 Saiko Shikikan (Japanese Supreme Commanders of the 16th Army in Java), and 2 Presidents of Indonesia, namely the first President, Soekarno, and the fourth President, Abdurrahman Wahid. However, it is worth noting that only four of the 15 Dutch Governors-General resided in this palace.
Istana Negara (Jakarta)
Located within the same complex as Merdeka Palace, Istana Negara sits on a 6.8-hectare site in the heart of Jakarta. The palace complex, which serves as the President's office, also includes the Baiturrahim Mosque, Wisma Negara, and the Presidential Palace Museum.
Istana Negara was built in 1796 during the tenure of Dutch Governor-General Pieter Gerardus van Overstraten. Initially, it was a private residence owned by J.A. van Braam until 1804 when it was taken over by the Dutch colonial government and repurposed as the Governor-General's residence and center of government activities, earning the nickname "Governor-General's Hotel."
The primary function of Istana Negara is to serve as the center of governmental activities, including official ceremonies and state functions. It also serves as a venue for hosting state guests, often used for state banquets.
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Bogor Palace (West Java)
During the Dutch colonial period, Bogor Palace served as a retreat for colonial officials. Situated on Jalan Ir. H. Juanda in the center of Bogor City, the palace occupies a land area of approximately 28.86 hectares.
Construction began in 1745 under Governor-General van Imhoff, who designed the building based on the structure of Blenheim Palace in England. However, between 1750 and 1754, the palace suffered severe damage due to the Banten War, led by Kiai Tapa and Ratu Bagus Buang. The rebellion did not succeed, resulting in significant losses for the Banten Sultanate due to Dutch plundering.
Today, Bogor Palace continues to be used for welcoming state guests and has been the site of many historic state events. It also houses several other buildings within the palace complex, including Pavilion Dyah Bayurini, which serves as the residence of President Joko Widodo and his family.
Yogyakarta Palace (Special Region of Yogyakarta)
The Yogyakarta Presidential Palace, also known as Gedung Agung, is one of the six Presidential Palaces in Indonesia. Located at the southern end of Jalan Akhmad Yani, the palace complex covers an area of 53,585 square meters.
The history of this palace dates back to 1823-1825 when it was initially the official residence of the 18th Resident of Yogyakarta. Gedung Agung played a crucial role in Indonesia's struggle for independence. Notably, Megawati Soekarnoputri, the fifth President of Indonesia and the daughter of President Soekarno was born in this palace.
Cipanas Palace (West Java)
Cipanas Palace was built in 1742 by Gustaaf Willem Baron van Imhoff. The main building covers an area of 982 square meters. Located at the foot of Mount Gede, Cipanas Palace has been a popular tourist destination since the Dutch colonial era. The cool climate and natural beauty of Cipanas Palace set it apart from other Presidential Palaces.
The palace complex includes several charming pavilions, one of the most unique being the Natural Hot Spring Pavilion, built near a natural hot spring. Additionally, the palace features the Herbalia Garden, covering an area of 2,886 square meters, which is dedicated to preserving national cultural heritage and promoting herbal tourism.
Tampaksiring Palace (Bali)
Located in Tampaksiring Village, Gianyar Regency, Bali, approximately 40 kilometers from Denpasar, Tampaksiring Palace was constructed between 1957 and 1960. The palace, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape, is situated to the north of Mount Batur and slightly to the east of Mount Agung.
Tampaksiring Palace primarily serves as a retreat for the Presidents of Indonesia and state guests. Today, in addition to being a presidential retreat, Tampaksiring Palace is also open to the public for tourism at designated times.
What's New?
Indonesia has two new palaces: Istana Garuda and Istana Negara, located in the new capital city, Nusantara. Istana Garuda and Istana Negara are situated at the highest point in the capital, on a hill 88 meters tall.
Istana Garuda serves as the President's office, while Istana Negara functions as the official residence of the President. With the upcoming inauguration of the newly elected President in the Nusantara Capital, the President will begin working full-time in the new capital city.
