Before us rises Masjid Umaamah. Its walls whisper tales of devotion in Jakarta. But what makes this mosque special? Let’s uncover its story.
Jakarta is known as Indonesia’s capital. But this city holds deep historical roots. Once named Sunda Kelapa, it was a center for Islam’s spread. So, Jakarta is home to some of Indonesia’s oldest mosques.
Masjid Istiqlal is a famous Jakarta icon. It stands as one of the oldest mosques still standing. World leaders often visit this Indonesian capital icon. The Istiqlal Mosque Foundation was founded on December 7, 1954. Its goal was to build a national mosque for Indonesia. The first pillar was erected on August 24, 1961. It coincided with the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday. Construction finished seventeen years later on February 22, 1978.
Masjid Agung Sunda Kelapa has a unique design. This mosque lacks domes and other common symbols. Instead, its shape resembles a boat. Architect Ir Gustaf Abbas chose this design. It symbolizes Sunda Kelapa port. Muslim merchants first traded and spread Islam here. The boat shape also shows a Muslim’s surrender in prayer. They seek God’s grace and love.
Masjid Agung Al-Azhar was established in 1958. It is located in the Al-Azhar school complex. Fourteen Masyumi Baru party figures helped found it. Since August 19, 1993, this mosque is a historical site. Before Masjid Istiqlal, it was Jakarta’s largest mosque. In 1967, school buildings were built around the mosque. These ranged from kindergarten to Al-Azhar Indonesia University, founded in 2000.
Masjid Al-Makmur began construction in 1704. According to Alwi Shahab’s book, it was built by Mataram royalty. At that time, the Mataram kingdom spread Islam to Batavia. Batavia is now known as Jakarta. Despite initial setbacks, nobles stayed. They believed in their ability to preach. Masjid Al-Makmur was built for this reason. It has always been full of worshippers.
Masjid Al-Alam Cilincing is Jakarta’s oldest mosque. It has stood since the 17th century. Its age is almost 495 years. It is said that Raden Fatahillah built it after arriving from Aceh. Although small and simple, it is a silent witness to Jakarta’s Islamic history.
Pangeran Adipati Awangga built Masjid Tua Al-Mubarok in 1527. He was also known as Pangeran Kuningan. He was part of the Demak-Cirebon forces. They seized Sunda Kelapa from the Padjajaran Kingdom. They renamed it Jayakarta. Prince Kuningan’s tomb lies within the PT Telkom complex. His followers’ tombs are in the mosque’s backyard. The mosque still functions well. Locals treat Masjid Tua Al-Mubarok as an Islamic learning center.
Masjid Jami’ As-Salafiyah has stood since 1619. It is also known as Masjid Pangeran Jayakarta. Pangeran Jayakarta Wijayakrama built it. This mosque is linked to the fight against Jaan Pieter Coon. He ruled Batavia at the time. He pushed Pangeran Jayakarta to Batavia’s edge. There, he built this mosque. Masjid Jami’ As-Salafiyah became a cultural heritage site. Today, you can visit and use it for worship.
These mosques reflect Jakarta’s long Islamic history. They stand as symbols of faith. They also show cultural heritage. Each mosque tells a unique story. Together, they weave a rich tapestry. They display Jakarta’s diverse religious landscape. Masjid Umaamah stands as a testament to this heritage. It reminds us of the enduring power of faith in this bustling metropolis.