Step Back in Time at Ereveld Ancol: Jakarta’s Hidden Historical Site

Step Back in Time at Ereveld Ancol- Jakarta’s Hidden Historical Site

Ever wondered about the hidden gems of Ancol besides its well-known attractions like Dunia Fantasi, Sea World, and the beautiful beaches? Well, today we’re diving into a lesser-known yet fascinating historical spot nestled within the Ancol Dreamland complex – Ereveld Ancol.

A Brief Introduction to Ereveld Ancol

Photo of the inauguration of Ereveld Ancol on September 14, 1946
Photo of the inauguration of Ereveld Ancol on September 14, 1946.

Ereveld Ancol is a war cemetery that holds the remains of soldiers and civilians who perished during World War II between 1942 and 1945. It was inaugurated on September 14, 1946, making it the first cemetery established by the military burial service to honor the victims of the war. Around 2,000 war victims are buried here, including Dutch soldiers, Commonwealth troops, and civilians from both the Netherlands and Indonesia.

 

The History and Significance

The victims buried in Ereveld Ancol met a tragic end, executed by Japanese soldiers. Although not all were executed in Ancol, many remains were found in different parts of Indonesia and brought here for a proper burial. A striking feature of the cemetery is a tree trunk, known as the Hemelboom (Tree of Heaven), under which many executions took place. This tree stands as a somber reminder of the past, bearing a poem by Laurence Binyon titled “For the Fallen.”

Poem Excerpt:

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We shall remember them. We shall remember them.

Monuments and Memorials

Ereveld Ancol Monument

One of the key monuments in Ereveld Ancol is the Algeement Monument, dedicated to the unnamed victims. The monument features an angelic figure with the inscription, “Hun geest heft overwonnen” (Their spirit has triumphed). Below it, a plaque reads, “ter eerbiedige nagedachtenis aan de vele ongennoemden die hun leven offerden en niet rusten op de erevelden” (in respectful memory of the many unnamed who sacrificed their lives and do not rest in the fields of honor).

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The gravestones differ in design to represent the victims’ faiths – Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, and Jewish, as well as for mass graves. Initially made from teak wood, the gravestones were later replaced with concrete to withstand the humid and salty coastal weather.

Preserving History

Managed by the Oorlogsgravenstichting (Netherlands War Graves Foundation) based in The Hague, Ereveld Ancol is meticulously maintained. This dedication ensures that the stories of those who rest here are remembered and honored. Originally, there were 22 such cemeteries across Indonesia, but they have since been consolidated into seven, all located on Java Island. Ereveld Ancol, alongside others in Jakarta, Bandung, Semarang, and Surabaya, serves as a poignant reminder of the past.

Visiting Ereveld Ancol

My visit to Ereveld Ancol left a deep impression. Far from being spooky, the cemetery is serene, beautifully landscaped, and meticulously kept. The greenery is lush despite the coastal heat, and the entire area is impeccably maintained. Despite past issues with flooding due to its low-lying location, a robust Dutch-engineered seawall built in 2007 now protects the cemetery.

Practical Information for Your Visit

Ereveld Ancol is open to the public daily from 7 AM to 5 PM, and admission is free! When you visit, don’t forget to sign the guest book and consider tipping the caretaker, who is knowledgeable about the site’s history and more than willing to answer your questions.

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  • English Proficiency: The guides are fluent in English, making communication a breeze.
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For first-time visitors to Java, Java Private Tour sets the benchmark for guided tours, ensuring you have an enriching and memorable experience.

Get the Best Guide in Java with Java Private Tour

Be aware of imitators and choose the authentic Java Private Tour. Many may claim to be Java Private Tour, but there is only one true Java Private Tour. Some foreign tour companies might use similar names, but the original and authentic service can only be found at www.javaprivatetour.com. Verify our location on Google Maps to ensure you’re getting the real deal.

For those visiting Java for the first time, Java Private Tour is your go-to resource. We are more than just a tour company; we are your companions in exploring the heart and soul of Java. Whether you’re here to relax, work, research, or create, we provide the perfect balance of professionalism and personal touch.

Ready to explore the wonders of Java? Head over to www.javaprivatetour.com/req and let’s start planning your adventure. Alternatively, you can click this WhatsApp link to chat with us directly.

With Java Private Tour, you’re not just getting a guide; you’re gaining a friend who will ensure your trip is extraordinary. See you in Java!

Happy travels! 🌟

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Java Private Tour

Java Private Tour, founded in mid-2000 by the energetic and passionate young entrepreneurs Edu and Zakaria, offers unique and personalized travel experiences throughout Java, Bali and Lombok Island. Inspired by their own adventures, Edu and Zakaria, along with their dedicated crew, provide exceptional service to clients from around the world, helping them explore the vibrant cities of Jakarta, Bogor, Bandung, Yogyakarta, Surabaya, Malang, Banyuwangi, and the enchanting island of Bali and Lombok.

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