Ready to step back in time? Imagine yourself surrounded by the echoes of Jakarta’s maritime past right here at Museum Bahari.
Museum Bahari stands as a testament to Indonesia’s rich seafaring history. It is housed within former VOC warehouses. These warehouses once stored precious spices. They were destined for European markets.
These buildings have stood since the 18th century. That’s over 300 years of history contained within these walls. Picture ships arriving at Sunda Kelapa. They unloaded valuable commodities. These goods were stored in the very building we are standing in front of. This later became the Museum Bahari.
Originally, the Dutch East India Company or VOC used these warehouses. They stored spices and other goods. The West Building was built gradually between 1652 and 1771. It was known as Westzijdsche Pakhuizen or Western Warehouse. The East Building was called Oostzijdsche Pakhuizen or Eastern Warehouse.
Interestingly one floor was used for drying spices before packaging. Later during the Japanese occupation, the warehouses became storage for military supplies. The Japanese stored weapons and food here.
After Indonesia’s independence, the buildings were repurposed. On July 7, 1977, the Museum Bahari was inaugurated by Governor Ali Sadikin.
Inside the Museum Bahari are various collections. They showcase Indonesia’s maritime heritage from Sabang to Merauke. You’ll find traditional boats from all over Indonesia. These boats display a range of styles and decorations. There are also miniature and modern ship models. Navigational equipment like compasses and sextants are exhibited.
The museum also displays marine life. See data about fish species in Indonesian waters. Learn about traditional fishing communities. See models of lighthouses and cannons.
The sentry posts outside are remnants of the old city wall. The Museum Bahari underwent renovations in 2014. This added facilities to attract more visitors.
As you leave the Museum Bahari consider its journey. From a VOC warehouse to a storehouse for Japanese troops. Then, finally, its transformation into a museum. It stands as a guardian of Jakarta’s maritime tales. Its exhibits help connect us to the city’s nautical past.