Dari Benteng Belanda ke Istiqlal

This is the most monumental mosque and the largest in Southeast Asia. Istiqlal means 'Freedom', symbolizing the independence and prosperity of the Indonesian people after successfully freeing themselves from the shackles of colonialism. President Sukarno deliberately chose to build this mosque on the ruins of the former Dutch fort which covers 9.9 hectares. 

Dutch Fortress or Citadel located at Wilhelmina Park. Formerly in the middle of the Istiqlal there Michiels Monument, in honor of Major General Andreas Victor Michiels, Dutch military commander in West Sumatra. He died from severe injuries suffered by the freedom fighters when facing a rebellion led an expedition in Bali (23 in 1848). This colonial emblem destroyed after independence. 

While the name was changed to Wilhelmina Park Wijayakusuma Park, Jalan Pintu Air, Central Jakarta. Istiqlal mosque construction was initiated by the Minister of Religious KH Wahid Hasyim (the father Gus Dur) and H Anwar Tjokroaminoto (HOS son Tjokroaminoto) together with other Muslim leaders in 1950, just a few months after the transfer of sovereignty. This all-powerful fortress, when demolished with dynamite by the Army Corps of Engineers takes one and a half years. 

During the month of Ramadan, thousands of worshipers can enjoy iftar together at Istiqlal, which its food is donated by benefactors. Every Friday is not less than 25 thousand worshipers at this magnificent mosque. While on Eid, estimated worshipers membeludak reached more than 200 thousand people. President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, the ministers, and diplomatic corps will pray in the mosque ID pride of the people of Indonesia. 

Istiqlal Mosque consists of several buildings. Like, the main building measuring 100 x 100 m (one hectare), is the principal building and all around there are five floors. The total building area of ​​36,980 square meters parent or almost four hectares. On top of the main building is made dome-shaped skeleton of the polyhedron, which wrapped betuh reinforced construction. At its peak, there is the epitome of 'Crescent and Star' is made of stainless steel. 

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