Merdeka Palace, Jakarta

Name: Merdeka Palace
Address: Jalan Medan Merdeka Utara, Jakarta, 10110, Indonesia

#30 among attractions in Jakarta

Palace

Gallery (8)

Map

Gallery

Photo details 1. Wikipedia / CC BY-SA 2.0 / BxHxTxCx (using album) / URL • 2. Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Gunkarta / URL • 3. Wikimedia Commons / Public domain / Press, Media and Information Bureau of the Secretariat of the President of the Republic of Indonesia (BPMI Setpres / Muchlis Jr) / URL • 4. Wikimedia Commons / Public domain / Presidential Communications Operations Office / URL • 5. Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Adisurahman / URL • 6. Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Ramsesinaga / URL • 7. Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 4.0 / Presidential Press and Information Office / URL

Facts and practical information

The Merdeka Palace, a majestic symbol of Indonesian history and heritage, stands proudly in the heart of Jakarta. This grand palace has been a silent witness to the political evolution of Indonesia, serving as a pivotal location for state affairs and presidential ceremonies. Built in the 19th century during the Dutch colonial era, the Merdeka Palace has since transitioned into a symbol of sovereignty after Indonesia proclaimed its independence in 1945.

The name 'Merdeka' itself means 'freedom' or 'independence' in Indonesian, reflecting the palace's significance as a beacon of national pride. It is part of the larger Presidential Palace complex, which includes several other important buildings, and is located near the iconic National Monument, or Monas. The palace's architecture is a blend of European neoclassical style with indigenous Indonesian elements, a physical testament to the country's complex past and its journey towards forming a unique national identity.

The Merdeka Palace is not only a residence for the Indonesian head of state but also a venue for diplomatic events and the annual Independence Day ceremony. The palace's lush gardens and stately rooms, though not open to the public daily, can be visited during special open house events, allowing citizens and tourists alike to glimpse into the country's political heart.

Local name: Istana Merdeka Architectural style: NeoclassicismCoordinates: 6°10'13"S, 106°49'26"E

Address

Jalan Medan Merdeka UtaraJakarta Pusat (Gambir)Jakarta 10110 Indonesia

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Jakarta

Day trips

Merdeka Palace – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Sarinah, National Museum, National Monument, Istiqlal Mosque.

1.2 miS
Shopping, Shopping centre, Department store
Sarinah, Jakarta
31 min walk • Sarinah, often regarded as Indonesia's first modern shopping center, stands proudly in the heart of Jakarta. This iconic building has been a landmark for retail and social activity since its inauguration in 1967. Named after a loyal servant of Indonesia's first...
0.4 miS
National history museum opened in 1868
National Museum, Jakarta
11 min walk • The National Museum of Indonesia, located in the heart of Jakarta, stands as a proud testament to the rich cultural heritage of the archipelago. Known locally as "Museum Nasional," it is often referred to as the Elephant Building (Gedung Gajah) due to the bronze...
0.4 miSE
Iconic homage to Indonesian independence
National Monument, Jakarta
11 min walk • The National Monument, often referred to by its Indonesian name Monas, is a towering presence in the heart of Jakarta, Indonesia. This emblematic obelisk stands at an impressive 132 meters and is topped with a flame coated with 35 kilograms of gold, symbolizing the...
0.5 miE
Massive mosque with modern style
Istiqlal Mosque, Jakarta
13 min walk • The Istiqlal Mosque, standing majestically in the heart of Jakarta, Indonesia, is not only the largest mosque in Southeast Asia but also a symbol of the nation's independence. Built to commemorate Indonesian freedom from Dutch colonial rule, the name "Istiqlal" itself...
0.8 miNE
Shopping, Shopping centre
Pasar Baru, Jakarta
21 min walk • Pasar Baru, located in the heart of Jakarta, Indonesia, is an iconic shopping center that has been a bustling hub of commerce and culture since its establishment in 1820. Known for its historical significance and diverse range of goods, Pasar Baru offers a unique...
0.4 miSE
Iconic place with historical buildings
Merdeka Square, Jakarta
11 min walk • Merdeka Square, often referred to as "Monas" due to the towering National Monument at its center, is a pivotal site in the heart of Jakarta, Indonesia. This sprawling expanse of open space is a cultural and historical focal point that has witnessed a multitude of...
0.6 miE
Neo-Gothic cathedral with 3 spires
St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Jakarta
16 min walk • Jakarta Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral in Jakarta, Indonesia, which is also the seat of the Roman Catholic archbishop of Jakarta, currently Archbishop Ignatius Suharyo Hardjoatmodjo.
0.8 miSE
Museum, Specialty museum, Art gallery
National Gallery of Indonesia, Jakarta
22 min walk • The National Gallery of Indonesia is an art gallery and museum in Jakarta, Indonesia. The National Gallery of Indonesia has existed as a cultural institution in the field of visual arts since May 8, 1999.
0.7 miE
Music and shows, Nightlife, Music venue
Jakarta Art Building, Jakarta
19 min walk • The Jakarta Art Building, historically known as Schouwburg Weltevreden, is a concert hall in Sawah Besar, Central Jakarta, Indonesia, built during the colonial period in Batavia, Dutch East Indies.
~1660 ftSW
Museum, History museum, Sculpture
Museum Taman Prasasti, Jakarta
8 min walk • Museum Taman Prasasti is a museum located in Jakarta, Indonesia. The museum was formerly a cemetery, built by the Dutch colonial government in 1795 as a final resting place for noble Dutchmen.
0.5 miE
Colonial architecture
Citadel Prins Frederik, Jakarta
13 min walk • The Citadel Prins Frederik, also called Fort Prins Frederik, was a fortification built in 1837 by the Dutch in Batavia, in the Dutch East Indies. It was located at Wilhelmina Park, which demolished around 1961 and replaced by the Istiqlal Mosque. The local people often referred to the fort as Gedung Tanah.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which popular attractions are close to Merdeka Palace?

Nearby attractions include Istana Negara, Jakarta (4 min walk), Prince Diponegoro Monument, Jakarta (8 min walk), Museum Taman Prasasti, Jakarta (8 min walk), Gambir, Jakarta (9 min walk).

How to get to Merdeka Palace by public transport?

The nearest stations to Merdeka Palace:

Bus

Pecenongan • Lines: 2, 3 (9 min walk)
Harmoni Central Busway • Lines: 1, 2, 3 (10 min walk)

Train

Juanda (13 min walk)
Gambir (17 min walk)