Welcome!
Jakarta, a bustling metropolis known for its towering skyscrapers and urban vibrance, is a magnet for people from all corners of Indonesia. Originating from a port town called Sunda Kelapa at the mouth of the Ciliwung River, the city became a gateway to the convergence of diverse ethnicities and cultures, eventually giving rise to the Betawi people—a community shaped by a variety of ancestral roots.
On July 22, 1527, Sunda Kelapa was renamed Jayakarta, a name that commemorates the victory over Portuguese colonization led by Fatahillah. This date is now celebrated as Jakarta’s founding day. Later, under Dutch colonial rule, Jayakarta became Batavia, with its urban infrastructure centered in what is now known as Kota Tua (Old Town). Following Indonesia’s independence, the city adopted the name Jakarta, which it proudly carries to this day.
The Jakarta Pavilion serves as an information gateway to the city’s historical development over time. It is also a tourist-friendly and accessible space for people with disabilities. One of the highlights is the traditional Betawi house, which offers a glimpse into Betawi architecture. The Rumah Kebaya and Joglo structures invite visitors to immerse themselves in the richness of Betawi arts and culture. Traditional interior spaces such as paseban (guest room), pangkeng (bedroom), pendaringan (storage area), and srodoyan (kitchen) evoke an authentic atmosphere.
Blandongan Hall, within the pavilion, functions as a cultural stage showcasing Betawi performances that embrace both traditional and contemporary influences. The main exhibition building features a striking ornament inspired by the Monas (National Monument) chalice. On the ground floor, visitors are welcomed by a pair of four-meter-tall ondel-ondel (giant puppets) at the entrance, which opens the door to Jakarta’s cultural treasures and a map of all museums across the capital. The displays include a diorama of European ships at Sunda Kelapa and various traditional Betawi outfits: everyday attire like sadariah and krancang, formal clothing such as jung serong and encim, and ceremonial wear like abang dan none Jakarta (Mr. and Miss Jakarta), and Betawi wedding costumes such as care haji and care China.
DID YOU KNOW?
Jakarta is home to Tanah Abang Market, the largest wholesale center in Southeast Asia, where goods are sold at highly competitive prices. Interestingly, when it was first established in 1735, the market was only open on Saturdays. Centuries later, Tanah Abang has evolved into a modern marketplace housing around 10,000 stalls.
