TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Semarang Old Town area is one of the popular tourist destinations in the capital of Central Java. The area is filled with colonial-era buildings that serve as an aesthetic backdrop for photographs. It also houses culinary places, galleries, and an antique market.
Worth-visit Tourist Attractions in Semarang Old Town
For travelers visiting Semarang Old Town, here are eight interesting tourist attractions worth visiting.
1. Blenduk Church
Blenduk Church is the main icon of the Old Town and one of the oldest churches in Indonesia. Originally named Immanuel Protestant Church, it is more commonly known as Blenduk Church due to its large dome-shaped roof. Blenduk in Javanese means dome. The interior is adorned with stained glass windows, classic wooden chairs, and a large functioning pipe organ. The church is still used for worship and church activities, and is a popular filming location due to its beauty.
2. Tawang Train Station
Semarang Tawang Station is not only the main entrance for train passengers but also a historical witness as one of the oldest stations in Indonesia. There is a small museum inside that houses a collection of artifacts, photographs, old tickets, and antique railway equipment. This collection provides an interesting insight into the development of railway transportation in Indonesia, especially in Semarang.
3. Marabunta Building
The Marabunta Building is known for its Dutch colonial architecture and the giant ant sculpture on its roof. This sculpture is a unique feature of the building. During the colonial period, the building served as an entertainment venue for the elite. Today, Marabunta often hosts theater performances, concerts, and art exhibitions, making it an important cultural hub in Semarang.
4. Klitikan Market
For antique enthusiasts, Klitikan Market is a shopping paradise. Visitors can find various collections here, ranging from antique furniture and oil lamps to wall clocks, typewriters, vinyl records, and analog cameras. The market also sells one-of-a-kind items, including military equipment, vintage books, and toys. Its strategic location in the heart of the Old Town makes it easily accessible, and it's best visited in the morning to get the best selection and avoid crowds.
5. Srigunting Park
Srigunting Park, located in the heart of the Old Town, is a green, open space that has existed since the colonial era. The park used to be a gathering place for the Dutch community, but it has since transformed into a popular public relaxation area. With shady trees, a grassy expanse, and neatly arranged flowers, the park is an ideal location for picnics or simply unwinding after exploring the historic area.
6. Semarang Contemporary Art Gallery
Since its relocation to the Old Town in 2008, this contemporary art gallery has been housed in a historic building located on Jalan Taman Srigunting No. 5-6. Visitors can enjoy a variety of modern art pieces here, including sculptures and paintings. The gallery also actively supports talented young artists by holding regular exhibitions and art events.
7. Marba Building
The Marba Building is easily recognizable with its contrasting red facade among other buildings. This two-story building has stood for around a hundred years, established by Marta Badjunet, a trader from Yemen, whose name was immortalized as "Marba." During the colonial era, the building served as a hub for the import-export and general trading activities of the company de Ziekel. Although it can only be admired from the outside as it is still used as an office, the building remains an attraction for tourists.
8. Semarang Creative Gallery
Located at Jalan Letjen Suprapto No. 7, this gallery is more than just a place to shop for local products; it is also a creative space that showcases the work of artists from Semarang. This destination combines shopping and local art appreciation by exhibiting various artworks, such as paintings, sculptures, and installations.