JAKARTA (indo.com): Despite its old age, the Jakarta History Museum, better known as Fatahillah Museum, remains intact and strong, with steel poles sustaining the historical edifice. Located on Jl. Taman Fatahilah No. 1, this museum is one of the most frequently visited of the capital's 39.

The building was constructed in 1626 and completed in 1627 during J.P. Coen's tenure of government. When Sultan Agung of Mataram attacked Batavia city in 1628 and 1629, the building was the target of assault. Part of it was burned down and underwent simple repairs in 1649. During Governor General Joan Van Hoorn's administration, the building was totally renovated, with an addition of a caromandel stone above the gate. The renovation was completed in 1710 and inaugurated by Governor General Abraham Van Riebeeck.

Formerly called 'Stadhuis' (City Hall) by the Dutch, the building initially served as the Dutch East Indies Company's centre of administration. It was previously known as 'Gedung Bicara' (Speech Building) because it was also used as a court house, a jail and execution place of prisoners during the Chinese revolt in 1740.

The museum now houses highly valuable objects, including gems from the Neolithic period and the remains of the Pernawarman Kingdom. Also on display are silver coins and a balance from the Portuguese period, and replicas of several inscriptions. These include 5th century Tugu inscriptions, Kebun Kopi II inscriptions from AD 928-932 and 14th century Batu Tulis Bogor inscriptions. It provides the historical background of Jakarta through displays of maps and antiquities, including furniture and porcelain used by the Dutch.

Closed Mondays & Public Holidays.