When SpaceJakarta editors visited historical sites in the Old Town area on May 6, 2025, the Syahbandar Tower immediately caught our attention. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the urban atmosphere, blending with the feel of the past, this old colonial-era tower offers a unique tourist experience: a bird's-eye view of Old Jakarta.
Source: SpaceJakarta Team Documentation at Syahbandar Tower
Located not far from the Maritime Museum and Sunda Kelapa Harbor, the Syahbandar Tower has stood strong since 1839. Once a monitoring post for ships entering and leaving the harbor, it has now become a magnet for travelers interested in exploring Jakarta's maritime and historical side firsthand. As we stepped into the entrance, the aura of this ancient building transported us back in time, complete with thick walls, wooden windows, and narrow stairs leading upwards.
The journey up the tower wasn't without its challenges. The steep stairs and narrow passages provided a unique sense of adventure. However, once we reached the top, all our fatigue was instantly rewarded. From the top of the tower, we were treated to a stunning view of the Kali Besar River, the neatly arranged roofs of old buildings, and the silhouettes of wooden ships in Sunda Kelapa Harbor. The gentle breeze and serene atmosphere at the top made us want to linger, observing the pulse of life in Kota Tua from a rarely seen perspective.
Source: SpaceJakarta Team Documentation at Syahbandar Tower
This visit opened our eyes to the fact that the Syahbandar Tower is not just a colonial relic, but also a window into Jakarta from a different perspective—a calmer, more humane, and more storied one. If you're looking to experience a lesser-known side of Jakarta, we highly recommend visiting and experiencing it for yourself.
Written by: Noverdy R
