How about a tranquil escape in the heart of Jakarta? That is what Taman Suropati offers. This park is a green oasis amidst the city. It is more than just a park. Taman Suropati is a monument to Indonesia’s history and diversity.
Taman Suropati sits in Menteng Central Jakarta. It marks the meeting point of three streets. They are Teuku Umar Street Diponegoro Street and Imam Bonjol Street.
Originally, Taman Suropati was a hill-shaped area. It was built from 1916 to 1919. FJ Kubatz and FJL Gijshels built it. PAJ van Moojen directed them. He was a Dutch architect. The then-mayor of Batavia GJ Bisschop instructed them. The park was first named Bisschopplein. This name honored Bisschop.
In 1950 Indonesia’s independence was formally acknowledged. The government renamed it Taman Suropati. This new name honored Untung Suropati. He was a national hero. He led a war against the Dutch VOC.
In the past Taman Suropati was a political rally venue. In 1965 the Nahdlatul Ulama held a public meeting. They supported an anti-foreign military bases conference. They demanded the disbanding of the Indonesian Communist Party.
Six monuments representing ASEAN were unveiled in 1984. Artists from the six founding countries made them. These countries are Brunei Darussalam Thailand Indonesia Singapore Philippines and Malaysia. Because of this Taman Suropati is a symbol of friendship.
During colonial times Taman Suropati was used for jogging and relaxing. This tradition continues today. Many people visit. They walk jog cycle sit and chat. Taman Suropati gives off a natural atmosphere. There are fountains and pigeons. People love to feed the many pigeons. In the afternoon the park becomes a melting pot for food and music lovers.
Taman Suropati is circular. It covers 16322 square meters. Many Dutch colonial buildings surround Taman Suropati. Modern statues are made for the park. Artists from ASEAN countries contributed. Because of this it is nicknamed Taman Persahabatan Seniman ASEAN. This translates to Park of ASEAN Artists Friendship.
Taman Suropati has gone through many ups and downs. It has remained a green space in Jakarta. Bisschop grew nearly 100 plant species. They maintained them well. These included mahogany sawo kecik ketapang and tanjung.
Escape the hustle and bustle. Relax and enjoy nature. Immerse yourself in local culture at Taman Suropati. It is a cultural oasis. It is a monument to Indonesian history.