“Did you know that Masjid Mangga Dua is more than just a place of worship?” It is a historical landmark with a fascinating story. This mosque stands as a testament to Jakarta’s rich past. It showcases the blend of cultures that shaped this vibrant city.
Masjid Mangga Dua is officially known as Masjid Nurul Abrar. It is one of Jakarta’s oldest mosques. You can find it on Jalan Mangga Dua Dalam. This is easily accessible from Jalan Mangga Dua. It is right behind Gedung Orion Mangga Dua. The mosque is also not far from the ITC Mangga Dua Transjakarta stop.
Let’s step back in time to 1841. This is when Masjid Mangga Dua was first built. In 1972, it was officially recognized as a cultural heritage site.
The mosque was founded by Sayyid Abubakar bin Alwi Bahsan Jamalullail. People affectionately called him Syekh Abubakar. Masagus Hamdi is now one of the mosque’s caretakers and a descendant of Syekh Abubakar. He shared that the mosque building was once the home of a Dutch colonial official. Two mango trees once stood proudly in front of the building. These mango trees gave the Mangga Dua area its name.
Imagine the area surrounding Masjid Mangga Dua in the 18th century. It was primarily inhabited by Javanese people. According to stories, the name Mangga Dua came from two large mango trees in front of the mosque. Thanks to these trees, the mosque was spared from demolition and declared a cultural heritage site.
Masjid Mangga Dua has only been renovated once, in 1986. Sadly, the ancient mosque is not well maintained. The supporting pillars are starting to decay.
Within the walls of Masjid Mangga Dua lies another significant feature. It is the sacred tomb of its founder, Syekh Abubakar. Besides Syekh Abubakar, there are other notable figures buried here. Among them are scholars from Hadramaut. There is also a Sultan of Bone. You will also find relatives of the Central Java Palace. Even the tomb of Souw Beng Kong, a Chinese captain, rests here. This diverse collection of tombs reflects the multicultural history of the area.
In 2021, Anies Baswedan, the Governor of Jakarta, visited Masjid Mangga Dua. He highlighted its historical importance. He also mentioned the origin of the Mangga Dua name. He emphasized the mosque’s role in the spread of Islam. He spoke about the courage of Sayyid Abubakar. This courageous scholar stood against Dutch colonial rule.
Once, a small pond existed near Sayyid Abubakar’s tomb. The pond was 15 meters deep and used for ritual cleansing. Clear water flowed continuously, like a natural spring. However, pilgrims began performing rituals that were feared to be straying into polytheism. Consequently, the mosque administrators decided to close it. Legend says this pond connected to Pasar Ikan through an underground passage.
Consider taking the Transjakarta corridor 12. Get off at the Halte Mangga Dua. From there, it is a short five-minute walk to the Masjid Mangga Dua.
The legacy of Masjid Mangga Dua continues to resonate. It connects the past with the present. This sacred space is a reminder of Jakarta’s diverse heritage. It welcomes all to reflect. It provides a sense of unity in a bustling metropolis.