Kasteel Batavia is a significant relic in Jakarta's history, primarily as it marks the earliest traces of the Dutch East India Company's (VOC) presence on Java. Its presence not only reflects the Dutch military and defense power of the past, but also demonstrates how Jakarta, formerly known as Batavia, developed from a colonial trading center into the major city it is today. The castle once served as the VOC's center of government, defense, and trade on the northern coast of Java.
1.) View of Kasteel circa 1627, artist's impression based on 1627 notes and maps. 2.) Batavia Castle 1767 by Johannes Rach, a Danish artist who worked at the VOC office in Batavia .
However, Kasteel Batavia was short-lived. In 1809, Governor-General Herman Willem Daendels decided to demolish most of the castle and its city walls. Daendels' primary reason for this decision was his concern that the castle could fall into British hands and be used as a defensive fortress in the event of an attack. Furthermore, the city's development direction changed, with the center of government being moved from Old Batavia (Kota Tua) to the more strategically located and environmentally sound southern area. Stones from the castle ruins were then reused to build Daendels' Palace, now known as the AA Maramis Building, part of the Ministry of Finance.
SpaceJakarta Team Documentation of the remains of the Batavia Castle today
According to Kartum Setiawan, Chair of the Cultural Exploration Community, Kasteel Batavia holds significant historical value because it was the starting point of colonial influence in Jakarta. Although most of its buildings are gone, its remains are still important to study so that current generations can understand the origins of Jakarta and the historical dynamics that shaped it.
Source: Kartum Setiawan
Author: Noverdy R
