Discover the key monuments of Jakarta

Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, is located on the northwest coast of the island of Java. It is certainly the liveliest city in the archipelago. You can find everything there: shopping centers, restaurants, leisure parks, spas, etc. The city is also adorned with beautiful monuments steeped in history. To better plan your tour in Jakarta, discover our selection of must-see buildings in Jakarta.

Monas: the national monument

Built in the heart of the city, on Merdeka Square, the Monas or Monumen Nasional is the emblem of Jakarta. This 137 meter high tower commemorates the struggle for Indonesian Independence, proclaimed on August 17, 1945. The beauty of this work is revealed especially in the evening, when it is illuminated by the spotlights placed at its foot and its golden flame lights up. You can reach its summit via an elevator, for a few rupiahs. From the top of the tower you will get a panoramic view of the city.

Istiqlal Mosque: the largest mosque in Southeast Asia

The largest mosque in Southeast Asia was built in 1961 on the remains of Fort Prins Frederik: the Istiqlal Mosque. It can accommodate nearly 120,000 worshippers, which is equivalent to the capacity of a football stadium, or even more. Like the Monas, this gigantic place of prayer is a symbol of Jakarta and Indonesia. In addition, he played an important role in the political history of the country. Its name Istiqlal means “independence”.

St. Mary's Cathedral, Jakarta

 St. Mary's Cathedral in Jakarta breaks the typical image of Indonesian cities. Built in the neo-Gothic style, this Catholic church stands out from the temples visible in the capital and in other regions of Indonesia. For history, it was inaugurated in 1810, then collapsed in 1890 following damage left by a fire in 1826. Its reconstruction resumed a few years later and was completed in 1901.

The National Museum of Indonesia: tracing the archipelago’s past

 The National Museum of Indonesia opens a window into Indonesia's past. It is in fact a museum of archaeology, history, geography and ethnology. Take advantage of your visit to Jakarta to discover this great monument and its treasures: prehistoric objects, ceramics, representative works of Javanese art, etc.

Wayang Museum: Indonesian puppets in the spotlight

 The Wayang Museum is a puppet museum that you absolutely must discover during a trip to Jakarta. Dedicated to the Indonesian art of wayang, the establishment offers various puppet shows within it. At first glance, this is nothing out of the ordinary; but think again! Javanese puppeteers are talented. Their figurines are simply magnificent with their clothes and masks bursting with color. The gestures are precise in each performance. In addition, traditional music brightens up the scenes.

The Jakarta Arts Theater: the meeting place for fans of the performing arts

 You love theater ? Definitely pay a visit to the Jakarta Arts Theater! This building built in the neoclassical style is a feast for the eyes both inside and out. Several events are organized there each year to promote Indonesian performing art. So, visit this place to discover the life and artistic performances of the locals.

The National Gallery of Indonesia: the best of visual art

The National Gallery of Indonesia is dedicated to the promotion and preservation of Indonesian visual art. She tries on a daily basis to raise awareness among the general public to cherish, share and protect this booming discipline thanks to the development of tourism. To achieve its objectives, the establishment continually schedules exhibitions, conferences and events bringing together local and international artists and art enthusiasts.