Imagine walking through a tunnel that connects two of the most iconic places of worship in Indonesia—where each step symbolizes a journey toward unity and peace. This is not just any ordinary tunnel; it’s the Silaturahmi Tunnel, an architectural marvel that connects the Istiqlal Mosque and the Jakarta Cathedral in the heart of Jakarta. The word “silaturahmi” itself means “to maintain relationships,” and this tunnel has become a living testament to religious harmony in Indonesia.
When Pope Francis visited Indonesia, he praised this remarkable structure, describing it as a “place for interfaith dialogue.” Accompanied by the Grand Imam of Istiqlal Mosque, Nasaruddin Umar, he even signed a plaque at the tunnel, marking its significance in promoting peace and understanding among different religious communities. But how did this tunnel come to be? What challenges did its construction face, and what does it symbolize for the future of interfaith relations? Let’s dive into the compelling story behind the Silaturahmi Tunnel.
A Vision Beyond Walls: The Birth of an Idea
Before the tunnel was constructed, there was a significant idea proposed by the Grand Imam of Istiqlal Mosque, Nasaruddin Umar. His vision was to eliminate the physical wall separating the Istiqlal Mosque and Jakarta Cathedral. However, removing the fence was not feasible as it would block the road and cause severe traffic congestion. Undeterred, Nasaruddin suggested a more innovative solution—a tunnel connecting the two places of worship.
At first, the idea of an underground passage faced multiple challenges. There were existing water pipes, electrical cables, and even remnants of old tunnels dating back to the Dutch colonial era beneath the Istiqlal Mosque. Despite these setbacks, Nasaruddin’s proposal gained momentum when it reached President Joko Widodo (Jokowi). Contrary to expectations, the President approved the idea, recognizing the potential of the tunnel to become a symbol of unity. As a result, what seemed impossible became a reality in a remarkably short time.
The Road Less Taken: From Bridge to Tunnel
Interestingly, Nasaruddin wasn’t the only one who had envisioned a connection between the two iconic landmarks. Lukman Hakim Saifuddin, a former Minister of Religious Affairs, had previously proposed building a bridge between Istiqlal Mosque and Jakarta Cathedral. The bridge was intended to be more than a mere structure; it would symbolize interfaith harmony and continuity of civilization. The Cathedral, with its European neo-gothic architecture, represents Indonesia’s rich past, while the Istiqlal Mosque, designed by Christian architect Frederich Silaban, signifies modernity and a future of unity.
However, the idea of a bridge didn’t materialize, as the symbolic and functional value of a tunnel felt more aligned with the spirit of “silaturahmi” or kinship. Unlike a bridge that spans above, a tunnel below ground level allows for a smooth and uninterrupted flow of congregants between the mosque and the cathedral, enhancing their mobility and interaction.
Architectural Marvel: Specifications and Features
Completed on December 15, 2020, the Silaturahmi Tunnel stretches 33.8 meters in length, stands 3 meters high, and spans 4.5 meters in width, covering a total area of 339.97 square meters. Its closest entrance is a mere 16 meters from the Istiqlal Mosque gate and 32 meters from the Jakarta Cathedral entrance. The construction cost of the tunnel was about IDR 37.3 billion, a worthy investment in fostering unity and tolerance.
The tunnel’s architecture is modern, featuring a transparent exterior and a diorama gallery that showcases the journey of religious tolerance in Indonesia. This gallery includes reliefs and electronic media that highlight important moments of interfaith dialogue and cooperation. As you walk through, you’ll encounter quotes from both Islamic and Catholic perspectives on the importance of “silaturahmi,” inspiring visitors to appreciate the shared values of peace and harmony.
Why Choose Java Private Tour for Your Jakarta Experience?
If you are a foreign traveler exploring Java for the first time, navigating these rich cultural landmarks can be overwhelming. This is where Java Private Tour comes in. Known for their exceptional English-speaking guides who are not only friendly but also knowledgeable about Indonesia’s diverse cultural and historical tapestry, Java Private Tour offers an experience tailored to your needs. Whether you prefer a flexible itinerary that adapts to your interests or the comfort of a private vehicle ranging from sedans to tour buses, we have you covered.
Java Private Tour’s crew and drivers are licensed professionals, ensuring a safe and enriching journey. Recommended by several embassies for our high-quality service, we provide a unique way to explore Indonesia’s cultural heritage, including significant sites like the Istiqlal Mosque and Jakarta Cathedral. Let us be your guide in discovering the wonders of Java—because we believe that travel should be more than just visiting places; it should be about connecting with the soul of a destination.
With Java Private Tour, you’re not just a tourist; you’re a part of a journey that bridges cultures, just like the Silaturahmi Tunnel connects two faiths.
Discover Java with the Authentic Java Private Tour
When planning your trip to Java, be mindful of imitators. Some foreign tour companies may use names similar to ours to promote their tours, but there is only one authentic Java Private Tour. To connect with the real Java Private Tour, visit our official website at www.javaprivatetour.com and check our verified location on Google Maps here.
For first-time visitors to Java, Java Private Tour isn’t just a tour service; we’re your gateway to exploring the authentic beauty of Java. Whether you’re here to unwind, work, conduct research, or create unique content, we offer the ideal combination of professional service and a personal touch. Our flexibility ensures that your experience is tailored to your needs.
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