Surabaya, also known as the City of Heroes, is the second largest city in Indonesia. Being one of Indonesia’s most important cities throughout history, especially during the struggle for independence, the city of Surabaya is home to many famous attractions. These include Tunjungan Square, the Heroes Monument and the KRI Pasopati Submarine Monument. The city is also home to many hotels and resorts such as the Somerset Surabaya Hotel and Serviced Residence; a stylish and luxury Surabaya hotel.
Among the many historic sites of Surabaya is the famous Kalimas Seaport. This traditional seaport, which has served even during the Dutch colonization of Indonesia, was one of the main ports in the region. Considered to have been the hub of commerce and trading activity for a long period of time, the Kalimas Seaport is a landmark of immense historic value, and is a symbol of Surabaya’s economic and maritime heritage.
The traditional Kalimas Seaport is located about 10km away from the Kenjeran Beach. The entire port spans over a 2km long stretch with numerous docks, wharves, warehouses and offices. During the peak of its activity the port used to be one of the Surabaya’s busiest areas, with numerous traders, loaders, cart men, and sailors reporting to the port each day. Loading, unloading, storing and distributing were the main forms of activity at the port, with many ships and barges bringing in goods and supplies from various other areas. Even today if one were to visit the Kalimas Seaport in the morning, before it gets too warm, you will be able to see a busy cart men and loaders carrying goods off ships and barges in haste. It truly is a great place to visit to understand the culture and history of the city, as the port was a vital lifeline to Surabaya’s. Although the Kalimas Seaport no longer maintains a reputation for being the main port in the area, it still symbolizes an important aspect of the heritage of Surabaya.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
