The Istiqlal Mosque is often regarded as a major symbol of religious tolerance on the island of Java but beyond this spiritual aspect, it’s the sheer size of the mosque that impresses. This large temple for Islamic worshippers is located on Jalan Tamam Wijaka Kusuma, at the north-east corner of Merdeka Square (Central Jakarta). This is a very central location that you’re sure to pass by at some point during your visit. This public space, the second largest of its kind in the world, is also home to important institutions such as the National Monument or Monas, the National Library, the Court of Justice, the Merdeka Palace, and the National Museum, among others. A stroll around Merdeka Square with a stop to see the musical fountain and the deer scurrying around the park can easily take you over an hour.
We recommend you take it easy and also visit all those nearby attractions, such as the Jakarta Cathedral, whose neo-Gothic towers will amaze you. Be sure to climb up to the observation deck of the Monas from where you can see the Istiqlal Mosque from an interesting vantage point.
History of the Mosque
The Istiqlal Mosque, which can accommodate up to 120,000 worshippers, was built to a design by Frederich Silaban, a Christian architect from North Sumatra. The building, which took around 17 years to complete (1961-1978), was built during the administration of President Sukarno, who personally supervised the development of this major project. In fact, the idea that the country needed a grand national mosque came from Islamic leader KH Wahid Hasyim and was supported by Cokroaminoto, the Minister of Religious Affairs. The word “Istiqlal”, which comes from Arabic, means “independence” and is a reminder of the Indonesian struggle for freedom. In fact, it was intended to be built as a memorial of colonial liberation.
Facts and figures
The Istiqlal Mosque, with its modern marble-covered design, is one of the most prominent buildings in Central Jakarta, and also one of the largest, occupying some nine hectares and standing five storeys high (like the five pillars of Islam). Its large prayer hall is rectangular and covered by a 45-metre diameter dome that is supported by 12 round columns (a number reminiscent of the prophet’s birthday). Although the interior is quite airy, the colours and shine give it a touch of elegance and luxury. Note the four rows of balconies in the main hall, the mihrab (the niche marking the closest point to Mecca), and the beautiful Arabic calligraphy with the names of Allah and Muhammad. Not many believers come here to pray and can resist taking a photo with their phones.
The main hall is connected to an open-air courtyard from where you can also see the 66.66-metre high minaret (reminiscent of the 6,666 verses of the Quran) where the call to prayer is given. If you head to the southern corner of the courtyard, you’ll find a fountain.
The illuminated mosque at night is a sight to behold. If you go up to the National Monument after sunset, you’ll get one of the best views of the city.
Curiously, during President Obama’s brief visit to Indonesia in 2010 he paid a visit to this mosque.
Information for the visit
As we’ve already mentioned, Jakarta’s Istiqlal Grand Mosque is in a very central and easily accessible location. To get there, you can get off at Gambir train station, and from there take a motorbike taxi (“ojek”) or walk there.
Entry is free every day of the week, through one of the gates symbolising the seven heavens of Islam. As usual, you should leave your shoes at the entrance.
Where to stay in Jakarta
A hotel where style, luxury, and comfort will leave you speechless is The Orient Jakarta, a Royal Hideaway Hotel. This five-star hotel in a prime location on Sudirman Street is the hotel you need to rest and recuperate after an intense day of sightseeing or work.
Its beautiful interior design is the work of architect Bill Bensley, who has succeeded in harmoniously blending antique Indonesian pieces with 21st-century comforts. It has 153 rooms of various categories, three restaurants, two swimming pools, a spa, and fitness area. Without a doubt, you have to experience this hotel to fall even more in love with this wonderful country.
