“A temple of the Moors,” they once called it. That’s just one fascinating tidbit about Masjid Jami Kampung Baru Inpak. Today, we stand before one of Jakarta’s oldest mosques. It stands as a testament to the city’s rich Islamic heritage.
Masjid Jami Kampung Baru Inpak is also known as Masjid Kampung Baru or Bandengan Mosque. You’ll find it on Jalan Bandengan Selatan. It is located in Pekojan, Tambora, Jakarta. Notice how close we are to Masjid Al-Anshor?
This area became home to traders from Arabia and India. These merchants needed a place to worship. So, Sheikh Abubakar, an Indian Muslim merchant, built this mosque. Construction started in 1743. It finished in 1748.
An old Dutch article from 1829 calls it “Moorsche Tempel.” This translates to “Temple of the Moors.” It’s believed that Muslim Moors built it. “Moorish” became a term to identify Indian Muslims. Though, originally, it described Muslims from North Africa and Andalusia.
Look closely at the architecture of Masjid Jami Kampung Baru Inpak. Much has changed. Only parts of the original building remain. Seek out the central square, carved grapes, and some window pillars.
In the late 1980s, Pekojan underwent changes. Sadly, this damaged Masjid Kampung Baru. Despite historical value, improvements took their toll. The mosque’s base is a square. Its roof has an overlapping pyramid shape. This design resembles traditional Javanese buildings. These often feature four central pillars supporting the pyramid roof.
Masjid Jami Kampung Baru Inpak covers about 1,050 square meters. The floor is covered with white tiles. Green and red mats lie on top. An antique lamp hangs from the ceiling. It has been there since the mosque’s early days.
Once, Masjid Jami Kampung Baru Inpak had a beautiful carved wood pulpit. It was the mosque’s pride. This pulpit no longer is used. It is now stored in the Jakarta History Museum.
The provincial government of DKI Jakarta has named Masjid Jami Kampung Baru Inpak as cultural heritage. This designation protects its legacy. It ensures this historical landmark remains for future generations. As you leave Masjid Jami Kampung Baru Inpak, remember its story. It is a story of faith, trade, and cultural exchange.