The Jakarta Cathedral, officially known as Gereja Santa Perawan Maria Diangkat ke Surga (The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption), is a prominent Roman Catholic cathedral located in Central Jakarta. Consecrated on April 21, 1901, it serves as the seat of the Archbishop of Jakarta and stands as a testament to Indonesia’s rich religious and architectural heritage.
Designed by Dutch architect Antonius Dijkmans in the neo-Gothic style, the cathedral features:
- Three Spires: The two front towers, each 60 meters tall, are named Turris Davidica (Tower of David) and The Ivory Tower, symbolizing strength and purity, respectively. A third spire, the Angelus Dei Tower, rises 45 meters above the main altar.
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Construction Materials: Due to Indonesia’s seismic activity, the cathedral was constructed using bricks covered with plaster, teak wood for the roof, and iron for the spires, deviating from traditional stone masonry.
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Interior Features: The cathedral houses a large pipe organ, installed in 1988, and a replica of Michelangelo’s Pietà. The walls are adorned with Stations of the Cross, and the main altar, imported from the Netherlands, is flanked by altars dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph.
The original church on this site was inaugurated in 1829 but collapsed in 1890. The current structure’s construction began in 1891 and was completed in 1901. Throughout its history, the cathedral has undergone several restorations, including significant renovations in 1988 and the installation of air conditioning in 2014.
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Opening Hours: Generally open daily from early morning until evening. It’s advisable to check the official website or contact the cathedral directly for the most current visiting hours.
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Admission: Entry is free. Visitors are welcome to attend Mass or explore the cathedral outside of service times.
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Etiquette: Modest attire is recommended. Photography may be restricted during religious services.
