Indonesia is one of the most ethnically diverse countries with more than 300 different ethnicities residing in the largest archipelago on earth. With so many different cultures and backgrounds in this melting pot, unique and spectacular designs, architecture and subcultures are bound to be found. One of the most prominent heritage sites in Jakarta are the Chinese-Indonesian historical sites. The Chinese influence can be clearly seen in the churches as well as houses. Even historical shops that to this day, stand as a strong evidence to the Chinese-Indonesian influence on the country's history and tourism industry.
Whether you are a short-time visitor, an expat or on a long summer holiday, there are a number of amazing Chinese-Indonesian historical sites that are going to be introduced here in this article that you should definitely be on your radar. So, grab your checklist and get ready to add in some more sites to visit on your next trip to Jakarta.
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Souw Siauw House
One of the most iconic and prominent houses in Jakarta with a Chinese-Indonesian architectural style that belonged to the infamous Souw family. Built in 1816, the house was home for a wealthy family of traders with the brothers Souw-Siaw Tjong and Souw-Siauw Keng being the two of the richest merchants in old Jakarta, called Batavia at that time. The house is preserved in its original form and gets constant restoration initiatives to help keep this Chinese-Indonesian treasure for future generations. -
Santa-Maria de-Fatima Church
This architectural beauty features a southern Chinese design, specifically the Fukien style. The church was originally built as a house and around 1950, the house was purchased and converted into a catholic church by a priest and by 1972, the church was declared a cultural heritage site. The church is located at Jalan Kemenangan along the 3rd street - number 47 in the village of Glodok which is in Western Jakarta. -
Vihara Dharma-Bhakti Complex
If you want to participate and enjoy Chinese festivals in Jakarta, then the Vihara Dharma-Bhakti is the place to go. The complex was built around 1650 under the command of a Chinese lieutenant named Kwee Hoen but unfortunately, it was burned down in 1740 during the massacre of the ethnic Chinese community. The complex is in fact a huge temple that to this day, the Chinese communities use as a place of worship. You can enjoy celebrating different festivals such as the Lantern festival and the Hungry ghost festival that are held in the courtyard of the complex. -
SMUN-19 High School
This high school is considered to be one of the most prominent historic buildings to be established by the Chinese community. Located in Kota in West Jakarta, the high school is the first modern private school in the East Indies that serves both local and Chinese students. Established by the oldest organization for Chinese residents, the school focuses on Chinese culture, algebra, and customs and was built to serve as an educational service originally aimed at Chinese students that settled in Batavia. -
Toko-Kompak Residence
Another architectural masterpiece that was the home of the Chinese government official Tio Tek Ho. Built around the first half of the 19th Century, the house features a mix of European, Chinese and vernacular architecture that will surely amaze you. There are definitely more historical site and landmarks that showcase the Chinese-Indonesian influence in Jakarta, but the aforementioned sites should give you what you are looking for with a balanced mix of architecture beauty, festivities and a trip back in time.
credit : https://www.decodeko.co.id/blog/wisata-pecinan-jakarta/
