Explore Medan’s fascinating historical attractions, from Maimun Palace to other historical sites depicting past events.
Medan, the capital of North Sumatra Province, is one of the largest cities in Indonesia that is rich in history. From the Dutch colonial era to the struggle for independence, Medan has been a silent witness to various important events in Indonesian history.
The city’s cultural diversity and historical heritage are clearly visible from the various historical sites and buildings scattered throughout the city.
For those of you who love historical tourism, Medan offers many places that can provide insight into its rich and diverse past. Here are 10 historical tourist attractions in Medan that you must visit.
1. Maimun Palace
Maimun Palace is one of the most famous historical icons in Medan. Built in 1888 by Sultan Makmun Al Rasyid Perkasa Alam, this palace is a symbol of the glory of the Deli Sultanate.
The architecture of Maimun Palace is stunning, combining European, Middle Eastern, and Malay styles.
The beauty of its interior, dominated by classical ornaments and a collection of historical objects, makes it a must-visit for tourists who want to learn more about the history of the Deli Sultanate.
Apart from being a place full of history, Maimun Palace also offers beautiful panoramas, especially with the blue sky of Medan as a backdrop. You can visit this palace to get a closer look at how the sultans and their families lived in the past.
2. Al Mashun Grand Mosque
Al Mashun Grand Mosque is one of the largest and oldest mosques in Medan, which is also a witness to the history of the development of Islam in this city.
Established in 1906, this mosque has a magnificent architecture with Middle Eastern, Indian, and Spanish influences. This mosque is the center of religious activities and is also a very important place in the history of the city of Medan.
The mosque’s charming architecture and green gardens make it a place not only for worship, but also a tourist attraction that attracts visitors interested in Islamic history and culture in Medan.
3. Tjong A Fie Mansion
Tjong A Fie Mansion is a large house that once belonged to a successful Chinese businessman, Tjong A Fie, who was very influential in Medan in the early 20th century.
The house was built in a very charming colonial architectural style, and inside it are various personal collections of Tjong A Fie, including antiques and art that tell the story of the social and cultural life of Medan at that time.
Today, the mansion is open to the public as a museum, providing in-depth insight into the history of the Tjong A Fie family and their contribution to the city of Medan.
4. London Sumatra Building (Lonsum)
The London Sumatera Building, better known as Lonsum, is one of the most prominent historical buildings in Medan.
Known for its stunning art deco architecture, the building was built in 1930 and was used by a large plantation company that at that time managed rubber plantations in North Sumatra.
Today, this building is a symbol of the past economic power of the city of Medan and is a very important place in the history of industrial development in Indonesia.
5. St. Joseph’s Cathedral
Saint Joseph Cathedral, located in the center of Medan, is the largest Catholic church in Medan and one of the oldest churches in the city.
The church was built in the early 20th century and has beautiful architecture, combining European and local elements. With a very large capacity, this church is the center of religious activities for Catholics in Medan.
Apart from being a place of worship, St. Joseph’s Cathedral is also a historical tourist attraction that offers extraordinary tranquility and classical architectural beauty.
6. Medan Heroes Cemetery
Medan Heroes Cemetery is a resting place for heroes who fought for Indonesia’s independence. Located in the Jalan Medan Merdeka area, this place is decorated with monuments that remind us of the great sacrifices made by the freedom fighters.
This tomb is a highly respected place by the people of Medan, and is one of the historical sites that preserves the memories of the struggle of the Indonesian people. Visiting this tomb provides a meaningful experience about the history of the struggle for independence in Medan.
7. North Sumatra Provincial State Museum
The North Sumatra Provincial State Museum is a very important place for anyone who wants to understand more about the history and culture of North Sumatra, especially Medan.
In this museum, visitors can find a collection of historical objects, such as cultural artifacts, traditional weapons, textiles, as well as a collection of flora and fauna native to the Sumatra region.
The museum also provides a broader insight into the history of the city of Medan and North Sumatra, making it a suitable educational destination for family tourism.
8. Srivijaya Temple
Sriwijaya Temple is located in the Medan City area, and is an archaeological site related to the Sriwijaya Kingdom which once ruled the Sumatra region and its surroundings.
Although not as many as other temples spread across Indonesia, Sriwijaya Temple remains an important symbol in the history of Medan as part of a great civilization in the past.
Visiting Sriwijaya Temple provides an opportunity to better understand the history and influence of the great Sriwijaya kingdom on the Medan area and its surroundings.
9. East Mountain Temple
Gunung Timur Temple is one of the largest and oldest temples in Medan. Known for its distinctive Chinese architecture, this temple is the center of religious activities for Buddhists in Medan.
This temple is not only used for worship, but is also an interesting tourist spot because of the cultural ornaments it has.
The long history of Vihara Gunung Timur reflects the very influential Chinese culture in Medan, and visiting this place is a good way to learn about the history and culture of the Chinese community in Indonesia.
10. Medan City Center (Independence Square)
Merdeka Square is the center of Medan city which has many historical buildings around it. This place has witnessed various important events in the history of this city.
Around the square, there are various Dutch heritage buildings that are still well maintained. Such as the Medan City Hall Building, as well as old churches that show the blend of cultures that formed the city of Medan.
Merdeka Square is a place that is often used for various public events and ceremonies, and is a place that is always busy with the activities of the people of Medan.
Medan is a city rich in history and culture. From Maimun Palace to Sriwijaya Temple, the city has many historical attractions that offer a different experience for tourists.
The diversity of historical sites in Medan not only reflects the past full of struggles, but also the diversity of cultures that shape this city.
Visiting historical places in Medan, such as The Le Hu Garden, gives us the opportunity to learn more about Indonesian history and deepen our understanding of the struggles and cultural heritage of the nation.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit these historical places and feel the charm of the extraordinary history of Medan.