It isn’t complete when
you vacation to Yogyakarta visit Fort Vredeburg. This fort is one of historic
buildings in Dutch colonial era built by "Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono
I" at request of Dutch government in 1760.
This fort is very
popular among tourists who visit Yogyakarta because it’s strategic location,
easily accessible and located near Malioboro Street. This fort is square and
has four bastions at each corner. Every bastion has name, “Jayaprayitna” in
southeast corner, “Jayapurusa” in northeast corner, “Jayawisesa” in northwest
corner and “Jayaprakosaning” in southwest corner.
Nuanced of European
architects are felt when entering this fortress, as if taking us on
socio-economic and political situation in Dutch colonial regime in Yogyakarta. Huge
pillars become sturdy foundation as if indicating the role of Dutch government
which is powerful when colonized Indonesia.
This fortress
surrounded by trench so you have to get into the fort by crossing the bridge.
From top of this bridge you can see beauty of Yogyakarta.
Besides as historic
relic, Fort Vredeburg also used as a museum. We can learn about history of
Indonesia using dioramas. In addition, there are numerous paintings and drawings
as well as objects of historical heritage in Dutch colonial era. If you want to
get around the fort, you can rent a bike at a price of 5,000 rupiah.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Access to Fort
Fredeburg is very easy as it located in the heart of Yogyakarta city, it can be
reached from anywhere if we use a plane or train. If you use train, get down at
Tugu station and walk toward south to Malioboro Street.
If you use plane, you
can ride Transjogja bus, it takes about 15 to30 minute to get to Fort Vredeburg
depending on traffic density. Or you can use taxi services from the airport to Fort
Vredeburg.
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