Semarang’s Old Town offers historical tourist attractions with distinctive colonial architecture, various interesting photo spots, and a number of culinary places that serve the taste of the past.
Semarang Old Town is one of the tourist destinations that holds many historical stories and the beauty of distinctive colonial architecture.
Located in the center of Semarang City, this area is a silent witness to the historical development of the city which has become a center of trade during the Dutch colonial era.
With various historical buildings, museums, and comfortable public spaces, Semarang Old Town is now a tourist spot that is not only attractive to local tourists, but also international tourists.
History of Old City of Semarang
The history of Semarang’s Old City cannot be separated from the important role of the VOC (Vereenigde Oostindische Compagnie) in Indonesian history. In the 17th century, Semarang was one of the important ports for the spice trade.
The Mataram Kingdom government led by Amangkurat II gave permission to the VOC to develop the city as a trading center, in return for the VOC’s help in crushing the Trunojoyo rebellion.
The VOC then built a fort called Fort Vijhoek which was used as a military base as well as a settlement for Dutch citizens.
This fort was the beginning of the development of Semarang’s Old City, which gradually began to develop with the addition of various office buildings, government, and housing.
Vijhoek Fort itself is no longer intact, but one of its remains that can still be found is De Zuider Por, known as the Berok Bridge by the locals.
The Attraction of Semarang’s Old Town
Semarang Old Town offers various attractions that captivate the hearts of visitors. One of the most striking things is the Dutch colonial architecture which is still well preserved.
The old buildings in this area retain their classic design, making every corner worth exploring and photographing. One of the iconic buildings in this area is the Blenduk Church, an old church with a large dome that is a symbol of Semarang’s Old City.
In addition, places such as Lawang Sewu and various other historical buildings enrich the historical tourism experience in Kota Lama.
Lawang Sewu, which is famous for its beautiful architecture and mysterious stories, is a must-visit destination for history and urban legend lovers.
Not only that, Semarang Old Town also has an art gallery and local craft center that exhibits various creative products made by artists and craftsmen from various regions in Indonesia.
Location and Accessibility of Old Town of Semaran
Semarang Old Town is located in a strategic area on Jalan Letjen Suprapto, Tanjung Emas, North Semarang District, Semarang City, Central Java. This location is easily accessible by various modes of transportation.
For visitors who come by train, this area is also not far from Semarang Tawang Station, making it quite easy for tourists who come from outside the city.
Access to Semarang’s Old Town is quite easy, and for tourists using private vehicles, there are parking areas around this area.
For those who want to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere, they can rent a bicycle or scooter which can be found around the Old City. The bicycle rental fee is IDR 15,000 for 60 minutes, while for scooters, the rate is IDR 15,000 for 15 minutes.
Semarang Old Town Entrance Ticket Fee
The good news is, visiting Semarang Old Town is free! There is no entrance fee charged to enjoy the architectural beauty and historical atmosphere of this area.
However, for visitors who want to travel further or try the exciting experience of cycling or using a scooter, they can rent these vehicles at affordable rates.
In addition, around the Old City there are several other interesting tourist attractions that also offer a different experience, such as the Old City 3D Trick Art Museum, with an entrance ticket of IDR 30,000, where visitors can enjoy three-dimensional artwork and take pictures with various creative spots.
Don’t miss a visit to the Semarang Contemporary Art Gallery, which only charges a ticket of IDR 10,000, to see various artworks from talented artists.
The Most Popular Spots in Semarang’s Old Town
Semarang Old Town has several tourist spots that are most often visited by tourists. Here are some places that must be visited:
1. Srigunting Park
This park is often used as a meeting place for tourists and visitors who come to Kota Lama. Its natural design and the presence of various unique properties such as bicycles, scooters, and artistic statues make it a perfect place for taking pictures.
2. Blenduk Church
This old church is one of the icons of Semarang Old Town. With its rounded roof design and typical European architecture, Blenduk Church is one of the most visited places by tourists who come to this city.
3. Marba Building
Marba Building has a charming classic European style architecture. This building is often the backdrop for vintage-themed photos taken by visitors who want to feel the atmosphere of the past.
4. Root House
An old house that is now a popular photo spot, this house is unique because the middle part is wrapped by large tree roots. In the past, this house was the editorial office of the Dutch-language newspaper, NV Dagblad de Locomotief.
5. Klithikan Market
If you are an antique lover, Klithikan Market is a must-visit. Here you can find various antiques such as pottery, ancient coins, to electronic devices and vintage motorbikes that have unique designs.
Facilities in Semarang Old Town
Semarang Old Town has been equipped with adequate public facilities for the comfort of visitors. Facilities such as toilets, places of worship, and trash bins scattered around the area ensure cleanliness and comfort are maintained.
For tourists who want to enjoy Semarang’s culinary specialties or just relax, this area also has various cafes with unique concepts.
Some cafe options that you can try are Spiegel Bar & Resto, Café Tekodeko, Café Marabunta, and many more. For those who want to enjoy the Old City at night, this area offers a different view.
Street lights that decorate the corners of the Old City create an elegant atmosphere, while Instagrammable photo spots are increasingly numerous, including an old telephone box that also functions as a place to charge your phone.
Semarang Old Town is a place that combines historical beauty, colonial architecture, and a comfortable atmosphere to visit.
With various historical sites, interesting photo spots, and adequate facilities, Lawang Sewu is a tourist destination that is a shame to miss when you visit Semarang.