the Charms of the Old Town (Kota Tua) area of Jakarta

In the heart of Jakarta, there is an urban oasis full of history and charm, known as Kota Tua, the Old Town, presenting a stark contrast to the bustling metropolis that surrounds it (with its distinct Dutch architectural influences). Kota Tua is also known as “Batavia Lama”, it is rich in historical and cultural sites, making it a popular destination for tourists.

The moment I stepped into Kota Tua, I was immediately struck by the mix of historic architecture and dynamic energy that filled its streets. Colonial buildings, with typical Dutch architectural influences, have been beautifully preserved and repurposed, providing a glimpse into Jakarta’s colonial history.

My first stop was the iconic Fatahillah Square. Once the colonial heart of Batavia, the square is now a bustling hub of activity. After Indonesia gained independence in 1945, Batavia was renamed Jakarta, and Fatahillah Square retained its importance as a historical and cultural site. In recent decades, the square has been revitalized as a cultural center.

the Town Hall (Stadhuis), now Jakarta History Museum (Museum Fatahillah ,photographed by writer

The old colonial buildings around the square have been converted into museums. Fatahillah Square is a popular tourist destination known for its art exhibitions and street performances. Here are the key museums located in and around Fatahillah Square:

1. Jakarta History Museum (Museum Fatahillah): the Town Hall (Stadhuis), which is now the Jakarta History Museum. This museum is housed in the former Batavia city hall, this museum is the main attraction of Fatahillah Square. It showcases the history of Jakarta from prehistoric times to the present, with collections including historical maps, paintings, ceramics, furniture, and archaeological objects.
2. The traditional Indonesian puppet (Wayang) Museum: This museum displays a complete collection of wayang puppets from various regions in Indonesia, including shadow puppets (wayang kulit) and wooden puppets (wayang golek).
3. Museum of Fine Arts and Ceramics (Museum Seni Rupa dan Keramik): This museum is located in a building that once served as the Dutch East India Company’s Court of Justice. It exhibits a vast collection of Indonesian fine art and ceramics, including traditional and contemporary artworks.

The following noteworthy museums of cultural and historical importance are within walking distance of the square, making them easily accessible to visitors exploring the area:

1. Bank Indonesia Museum: It was established as the head office of De Javasche Bank, the central bank of the Dutch East Indies. The building combines neo-classical elements with local Indonesian influences. In 1953, De Javasche Bank was nationalized and transformed into Bank Indonesia, becoming the central bank of the Republic of Indonesia. The Bank Indonesia Museum was officially inaugurated on 21 July 2009.
2. Bank Mandiri Museum: Initially, the building served as the headquarters for the Nederlandsch-Indische Handelsbank, one of the primary banks during the Dutch colonial period. Bank Mandiri itself was established in 1998, as a result of the merger of four state-owned banks. Due to the historical and cultural significance of the building and its contents, Bank Mandiri decided to convert it into a museum. The Bank Mandiri Museum was officially inaugurated in 1999.
3. Maritime Museum (Museum Bahari): A bit further north but still within walking distance, near the Sunda Kelapa Harbor. The museum showcases Indonesia’s maritime history and the importance of the sea to Indonesian culture. The exhibits include models of fishing boats from different parts of Indonesia, traditional navigational instruments, the lives of fishermen, traditional boat-building techniques, and the role of the sea in Indonesian folklore.
4. Puppet Building (Gedung Wayang Orang Bharata): This puppet theater near Kota Tua offers an immersive experience in Indonesian cultural performances. It was established to promote and preserve this traditional art form. The Puppet Building has adapted by incorporating modern elements into performances and reaching out to broader audiences through various means, including educational programs and collaborations.

Factoid: Architectural Link of Jakarta History Museum (Stadhuis of Batavia) and Amsterdam Town Hall (Now the Royal Palace Amsterdam)

Architectural Link of Stadhuis of Batavia) and Amsterdam Town Hall

Although there are some architectural parallels between the Jakarta History Museum (Stadhuis of Batavia) and the Amsterdam Town Hall, they are not identical. The similarities reflect the transference and adaptation of Dutch architectural styles to the colonial context of Batavia. The Amsterdam Town Hall, completed in the mid-17th century, was a symbol of Amsterdam’s wealth and power during the Dutch Golden Age. The building now serves as the Royal Palace Amsterdam but was originally built as the town hall. Meanwhile, Jakarta History Museum (Stadhuis of Batavia) was built in 1707 during the Dutch colonial period, the Stadhuis in Batavia (now Jakarta) served as the administrative center of the Dutch East India Company (VOC).

Did you know: Tram System in Batavia
As in the Netherlands, Europe, trams play an important role in connecting various areas in Batavia. They facilitated easier movement for colonial administrators and local residents, connecting residential areas, commercial centers, and government offices. The tram system in Batavia was introduced at the end of the 19th century. Originally, these were horse-drawn trams, which were common in urban transportation globally at the time. After Indonesia’s independence, the tram system was gradually phased out, replaced by buses and other modes of transportation more suited to the city’s growth. Although the original tram system no longer operates in modern Jakarta, its history is preserved through photographs.

Trams in Batavia, photographed by writer

Tips for Future Visitors:

1. Bring a camera and wear comfortable walking shoes. For photography enthusiasts (like myself), Kota Tua is a paradise. Every corner presents a photo opportunity, from colorful street art to charming old building facades.
2. To fully enjoy the museums and sightseeing without the crowds, you can start early.
3. It’s a good idea to try local culinary delights, don’t miss the traditional food stalls around Fatahillah Square.
4. You can also rent a bicycle. Colorful bicycles are available for rent, complete with unique hats, making it a fun way to explore the area.
5. Sunda Kelapa Harbor is a great place to explore, the old harbor area features traditional wooden schooners and is a great place for photography.
6. Nearby Jalan Surabaya is famous for its antique market, offering a variety of unique and vintage items.
7. Keep an eye out for cultural events, performances, and puppet shows.
8. Many historic buildings have been converted into cafés where you can relax and soak in the atmosphere of old Jakarta.
9. Explore Kota Tua at night for a different perspective.
10. Look for street art and murals that add a contemporary touch to the historic neighborhood.

I returned home with a camera full of photos, a heart full of memories, and a new appreciation for Jakarta’s rich history and culture. My journey through Jakarta’s Old Town had been more than I had ever imagined. It was a place where the past and present coexisted, where every corner held a new discovery.

My final thoughts, for anyone visiting Jakarta, a day spent in Kota Tua is a day spent exploring the pages of history, filled with cultural insights, culinary delights, and visual splendor to experience the soul of Jakarta. Remembering the old Stadhuis (Town Hall) of Batavia is to recall a significant piece of Jakarta’s colonial past.