Unveiling 6 Presidential Palaces of Indonesia

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesia's rich history is reflected in its six presidential palaces, each with a unique story and architectural style. These palaces serve as official residences, venues for state events, and symbols of the nation's power.

Let’s get to know the presidential palaces in Indonesia.

List of Presidential Palaces in Indonesia

1. Merdeka Palace, Jakarta

Located in Central Jakarta, Merdeka Palace is one of Indonesia’s most renowned presidential palaces. Standing prominently opposite the National Monument (Monas), the palace has witnessed significant events in Indonesian history since the Dutch colonial era, including the proclamation of independence. 

Constructed in 1873 during Dutch colonial rule led by Governor General Louden, the palace was originally named “Gambir Palace” as it is situated in the Gambir district. After Indonesia’s independence, President Soekarno renamed it “Merdeka Palace’ as a symbol of freedom.

Every year, the Merdeka Palace hosts the annual ceremony of Indonesia’s Independence Day on August 17. It also remains the primary presidential residence and hosts official ceremonies.

2. State Palace, Jakarta

Located adjacent to Merdeka Palace, the State Palace is primarily used for official state functions such as presidential inaugurations, swearing-in ceremonies, and receptions for foreign dignitaries.  

Originally constructed in 1796 as a rest house for the Dutch East Indies governors-general, the State Palace was repurposed by the Indonesian government after independence. This grand building boasts magnificent and elegant colonial-style architecture, reflecting the glory of the Dutch colonial era in Indonesia.

3. Bogor Palace, West Java

Located in Bogor City, West Java, Bogor Palace is a famous presidential residence known for its beauty and historical significance. Originally constructed in 1744 by Governor General Gustaaf Willem Baron van Imhoff as a rest house, the palace is nestled against the backdrop of Mount Salak and surrounded by the serene Bogor Botanical Gardens.

Following Indonesia's independence, Bogor Palace was taken over by the Indonesian government and made into one of the presidential palaces. President Soekarno frequently used the palace as a place of rest and inspiration. The palace also served as a venue for significant events, such as the 1955 Asia-Africa Conference led by Soekarno.

One of the palace's notable features is the herd of deer grazing in its front yard. These deer, originally brought from Nepal, add to the palace's charm and natural beauty.

4. Cipanas Palace, West Java

Located at the foot of Mount Gede, Cipanas Palace is one of Indonesia's presidential retreats. Built in 1740 by Governor General Abraham van Riebeeck as a rest house, Cipanas Palace has been a popular destination since the Dutch colonial era, renowned for its cool climate and scenic beauty.

Following Indonesia's independence, Cipanas Palace became one of six presidential palaces. Presidents often utilize this retreat for rest and informal meetings with government officials or foreign dignitaries.

In addition to the main building, Cipanas Palace features charming pavilions and meticulously landscaped gardens adorned with a variety of ornamental plants and flowers. These serene surroundings provide a tranquil atmosphere for its occupants.

5. Tampaksiring Palace, Bali

Constructed in 1957 by President Soekarno, Tampaksiring Palace is the only presidential palace constructed after Indonesian independence. This grand building is located in Gianyar Regency, Bali, offering a serene atmosphere surrounded by forests and rice fields. The palace is used for presidential residences and state events.

Standing at an altitude of 700 meters above sea level, Tampaksiring Palace is surrounded by lush forests and picturesque rice fields. The name "Tampaksiring" derives from the local words "tampak" (meaning palm) and "siring" (meaning slanted), referencing a legend about a king who flattened the land with his palm.

The palace complex comprises several main buildings, including Wisma Merdeka and Wisma Negara, which serve as residences for the president and state guests, as well as the Aula Kenangan for official events.

Tampaksiring Palace has a unique architectural blend of traditional Balinese elements and modern design. The palace's natural surroundings and unique architecture make it a popular tourist destination in Bali.

6. Gedung Agung, Yogyakarta

Gedung Agung, located in the heart of Yogyakarta City, is a presidential palace with significant historical significance. Originally constructed in 1824 as the official residence of the Dutch Resident in Yogyakarta, it became a symbol of Indonesian independence following the country's sovereignty.

During the Second Dutch Military Aggression in 1948, the palace served as a refuge for President Soekarno and Vice President Mohammad Hatta after the temporary relocation of the Indonesian capital to Yogyakarta.

Currently, Gedung Agung is used as a venue for state events and official visits of foreign dignitaries to Yogyakarta. Its architectural style, a blend of colonial and traditional Javanese elements, reflects the city's rich cultural heritage.

EIBEN HEIZAR | SETNEG | INDONESIA BAIK

Editor's Choice: Presidential Palace: a Brief History of Indonesian Presidents Who Reside Within Its Walls

Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News