Travel Jakarta to discover links to early-day spice trading – like a water canal system, fortresses and warehouses – and then learn how the city became the nation’s capital, finally, in 1949. This popular Indonesian destination has survived periods of Dutch, British and Japanese occupation, and the remnants that remain from these eras give the city a unique depth of history like few others. From its 4th-century origins of a Hindu settlement to its modern-day independence, Jakarta is a national treasure waiting to be explored.

AGODA EXTRA: Jakarta is the city of many names. In the fourth century under Sundanese rule, the settlement was called Sunda Kelapa. It was renamed Jayakarta 1,200 years later, after being conquered by the Banten Sultanate. The Dutch called the city Batavia, and nationals chose the name Jakarta, meaning “victorious deed,” when the country (sort of) gained its independence in 1945.

1. Discover the story behind Indonesia’s independence at the NATIONAL MONUMENT (MONAS) in MERDEKA SQUARE

The National Monument, or Monas, towers over the heart of the city in Merdeka Square and stands as a source of pride for the entire country. The marble monument hovers at a height of 137 meters, and the solid gold-covered flame – weighing 14.5 tons! – at the top of the structure is an ever-glowing reminder of how the country proclaimed its independence. Take a lift to the top for a glorious bird’s-eye view of the nation’s capital, or keep yourself grounded at the base with a walk through time at the National History Museum and Hall of Independence, where the original text of the Proclamation of Independence can be viewed.

Check In to Keraton at The Plaza a Luxury Collection Hotel Jakarta, Step Out to National Monument (MONAS)

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2. Tour an architectural masterpiece at ISTIQLAL MOSQUE

Shortly after Indonesia gained its independence, leaders of the nation decided to honor the new republic, home to the largest Muslim population in the world, in the grandest of fashions. It took 17 years to build Istiqlal Mosque. The structure is the largest religious center in Southeast Asia and can accommodate up to 120,000 guests at one time. A masterpiece of symbolism, the mosque features seven gates, five levels of a main hall and an impressive 45-meter dome. Each number represents an aspect of Islamic belief and the country’s rise to independence. Enter the main prayer hall for a view of the dome, and find out whose birthday is celebrated by the 12 columns that support it!

Check In to Le Grandeur Mangga Dua Hotel, Step Out to Istiqlal Mosque

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3. Take a tour of a landmark church at ST. MARY OF THE ASSUMPTION CATHEDRAL

The enchanting spires and stone façade are two of the most noted architectural features of St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral. Consecrated in 1901, the church belongs to a complex of attractions near Merdeka Square and serves as a historical reminder of Indonesia’s collective religious tolerance. Noted landmarks within the church grounds include a statue of Our Lady Mary and three magnificent spires, two of which loom over the complex at 60 meters. The other rises 45 meters above the mid-section of the church, which was built to resemble a cross.

Check In to YELLO Hotel Harmoni, Step Out to St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral

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4. Read about a revolution and view a famous statue at PROCLAMATION MONUMENT (TUGU PROKLAMASI)

The Proclamation of Independence was read at this location in 1945 by former President Sukarno, but history will tell you that the country’s efforts weren’t formally acknowledged until 2005. Learn how the document read at this site started a revolution and eventually resolved conflict between Indonesia and the Netherlands.

Check In to Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta, Step Out to Proclamation Monument

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5. See where spice traders entered Indonesia at JEMBATAN KOTA INTAN (KOTA INTAN BRIDGE)

Once a main passage point for merchant traders, the Kota Intan Bridge is the last remaining drawbridge in Indonesia. The wooden structure was built in the early 1600s, and while visitors can no longer walk across its surface, it still serves as a reminder of the region’s rich maritime history. At one time, the bridge connected the fortresses of English and Dutch forces, and it was raised by hand to let ships in and out of the harbor. Today, the ancient symbol can be admired only from a distance, but locals revere its presence, and history buffs find it one of the most fascinating landmarks in Jakarta.

Check In to Swiss-Belinn Kemayoran, Step Out to Jembatan Kota Intan (Kota Intan Bridge)

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