Hidden within Jakarta’s bustling Cakung district lies Penggilingan. Penggilingan whispers a story of a forgotten past. Before the towering buildings and crowded streets, Penggilingan was a tranquil expanse of farmland. Imagine fields of sugarcane swaying gently in the breeze. The air, thick with the sweet scent of molasses, as farmers harvested their crops. The name “Penggilingan” itself means “grinding” or “milling.” This refers to the area’s history as a center for sugar cane processing. Stone grinding wheels, or “batu kiser,” were once a common sight here. These were used to crush the sugarcane stalks and extract their sugary juice. Some of these stones have been discovered during excavations. One can even be found at the Jakarta History Museum. In the 18th century, a Chinese immigrant named Lie Seng Sang sought refuge in Penggilingan following the 1740 Batavia massacre. He established a sugar mill, further solidifying the area’s connection to sugar production. His legacy is etched in the local history. His burial site, known as “Kuburan Seng,” is a testament to his impact on the community. Penggilingan’s history extends beyond sugar. The area was also known for its rice paddies and traditional rice milling. Farmers would bring their harvested rice to be processed. The rhythmic thud of the mills filled the air, a soundtrack to the daily life of the community. Remnants of this agricultural past can still be found in the stories passed down through generations. Today, Penggilingan is a blend of old and new. While the sugar mills and rice paddies are largely gone, the name and the stories remain. As you walk through the streets of Penggilingan, remember the echoes of the past. Remember the sweet scent of sugarcane, the rhythmic grind of the mills, and the legacy of Lie Seng Sang. Penggilingan’s story is a reminder that even in the heart of a bustling metropolis, whispers of history can still be heard.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to