Sumpah Pemuda: The Role of Youth in The Nation’s Independence
Monument Entrance
The National Monument is strategically located in the center of Jakarta. It is regarded as one of the most frequently visited historical places in Indonesia. The National Monument’s surrounding presence of public buildings, such as the National Library of Indonesia, National Gallery of Indonesia, National Museum of Indonesia, Istiqlal Mosque, Jakarta Cathedral, and others, enhances its special significance. This 132-meter high monument, considered the icon of the capital city, was built in 1961 to commemorate the heroes who secured Indonesia’s independence from colonialists.
Ir. Soekarno, the first president of Indonesia, publicly opened and inaugurated it on July 12, 1975. Even after 79 years of Indonesia’s independence, the National Monument is still open every day, except Monday for maintenance. Its strategic location make it easily accessible by public transportation like commuter train and Transjakarta. Visitors need to buy a ticket to enter the monument area. At the base, there is a National History Museum, and to reach the top, visitors can take the elevator for beautiful views of the Jakarta.
The National Monument’s Goblet Yard
The National Monument features a distinctive 117.7m obelisk on a 45m square platform at 17m height, known as the goblet yard. Inside, the Hall of Independence houses historical objects, including the original manuscript of the Proclamation of Independence, the Indonesian coat of arms, and the sacred national flag. The middle platform in the goblet yard, accessible by elevator or stairs, offers views from a height of 17 meters. But now, the beauty of The National Monumen can also through VR Tourism.
Marble and Gold Accents at The National Monument
National Monument VR Tourism offers precise information about the building’s condition. The structure is stunning with its contrasting marble and gold tones. The obelisk is covered in Italian marble, with a gold-plated ember-shaped tip weighing 50kg. The ember-shaped tip of the National Monument represents Indonesia’s personality: dynamic, moving, and blazing. Initially, the gold layer on the flame weighed only 35 kg, with the majority contributed by Teuku Markam, a wealthy trader from Nangroe, Aceh Darussalam. During Indonesia’s 50th anniversary, an additional 50kg of gold was added to the flame.
The Towering Monument
The towering monument portrays the Lingga and Yoni philosophies, symbolizing modern architecture with Indonesian cultural characteristics. The towering Obelix represents Lingga’s virility and masculinity. Meanwhile, the square cup at the foot reflects Yoni’s feminine characteristics. Overall, the structure signifies the beginning of a new generation. Overall, the structure signifies the beginning of a new generation, aligning with Indonesia’s struggle for sovereignty and democracy during its establishment.
Stargazing at The National Monument Observatory
The observatory, located 115 meters above the Earth’s surface, is a popular destination where tourists may experience the amazing view of the metropolis of Jakarta. Moreover, this 11×11 meter space is capable of accommodating 50 people. The Observatory also helps tourists have a fantastic visit by giving telescopes so they can see the intricate details of Jakarta. If the weather is good visitors can see Mount Salak from another province, Bogor, which adds to the attractiveness of the National Monument Observatory.
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