“Ever wondered where the name Mangga Dua comes from?” The story of Masjid Nurul Akbar is intertwined with the origin of this area’s name. Welcome to Masjid Nurul Akbar a historic mosque in Jakarta. It is also known as Masjid Mangga Dua.
Built in 1841 the Masjid Nurul Akbar stands as a testament to Jakarta’s rich history. It was established by Sayyid Abubakar bin Alwi Bahsan Jamalullail. He was also known as Syekh Abubakar. He was an ulama who bravely resisted Dutch colonial rule.
Legend says that the name Mangga Dua comes from two large mango trees. These mango trees once stood proudly in front of the Masjid Nurul Akbar. These trees became the namesake of the entire Mangga Dua area.
Anies Baswedan the Governor of Jakarta once visited the Masjid Nurul Akbar. He shared the story of the mosque and the origin of Mangga Dua’s name. He highlighted its importance as a cultural and historical site.
The Masjid Nurul Akbar has undergone only one major renovation. This renovation took place in 1986. During the renovation the original four main pillars were preserved. The original pulpit was also kept.
Inside the Masjid Nurul Akbar you will find more than just a place of worship. There are twelve tombs located in and around the mosque. These tombs reflect the diverse communities that have called Mangga Dua home over the years. Among those buried here are Sayid Abubakar bin Sayid Alwi Bahsan Jamalulail. There is also Rd Tumenggung Anggakusumah Dalem-Gadjah and Kapitein Souw Beng Kong.
The government recognized the historical value of the Masjid Nurul Akbar. In 1972 it was designated as a cultural heritage site. This ensures that this important landmark will be preserved for future generations.
Visiting the Masjid Nurul Akbar is easy. You can take the Transjakarta bus. Get off at the Mangga Dua Halte. Then it is just a short five-minute walk to the mosque. As you leave Masjid Nurul Akbar remember its story. It is a story of faith. It is a story of resistance and community. It is a story rooted in the very soil of Mangga Dua.