Built in 1761 Masjid Jami Al-Anwar stands as a testament to Jakarta’s rich history. Its story is one of resilience faith and cultural fusion. This magnificent mosque is more than just a place of worship. It’s a living archive of Jakarta’s multiethnic past.
Masjid Jami Al-Anwar also known as Masjid Angke is located in Tambora West Jakarta. It is one of Jakarta’s oldest mosques. Its history reflects the diverse origins of colonial Jakarta. The area around the mosque was once a Balinese settlement known as Kampung Goesti. By the mid-eighteenth century this community had converted to Islam.
The mosque’s construction is a fascinating tale. Nyonya Tan and Syaikh Liong Tan a Muslim convert from Batavia’s Chinese community were the main benefactors and contractor. The mosque’s architecture is a unique blend of styles. It shows Javanese Balinese Chinese and Dutch influences. The tiered roof is distinctly Javanese. Balinese elements are prominent in the window shutters and roof design. Chinese influences are visible in the roof’s bracketing and lotus decorations. Dutch colonial touches appear in the main door and window ornamentation.
Masjid Jami Al-Anwar’s location is significant. It’s near a canal called Angke. The name Angke possibly comes from Hokkien words meaning blood and carcass. This refers to a nearby slaughterhouse and the canal’s blood-stained water. The area was also known as Pejagalan meaning slaughterhouse. In 1858 Prince Syarif Hamid from Pontianak was buried in front of Masjid Jami Al-Anwar. His grave is still visited today.
The mosque’s history is intertwined with Jakarta’s struggles. It was allegedly a meeting place for fighters against Dutch colonial rule. It stands as a symbol of resistance and faith. Many tombstones near the mosque bear both Chinese and Arabic inscriptions. This reflects the diverse community that helped build the mosque and shaped its history.
Masjid Jami Al-Anwar has been restored several times. This includes renovations in 1970 1985-1987 and 2016. Despite these restorations the mosque maintains its original form. It is a protected cultural heritage building. Masjid Jami Al-Anwar is a small structure measuring 15 x 15 meters. It sits on a plot of 400 square meters.
Today Masjid Jami Al-Anwar continues to serve its community. It’s a place of prayer reflection and a reminder of Jakarta’s rich past. It is a beautiful example of how different cultures and faiths can blend together. This mosque remains a unique and powerful symbol in Jakarta.