The initial impetus behind the structure was President Sukarno, who envisaged creating a national icon comparable in status to Paris’ Eiffel Tower. Construction commenced in 1961 under the guidance of President Sukarno and the completed site was opened to members of the public in the year 1975.
The magnificent monument features a square 45 metre platform on which is positioned a gleaming obelisk. The unmistakable obelisk is covered in Italian marble giving it an undeniable aura of grandeur. The structure is topped by a symbolic feature which is known as the Flame of Independence, a bronze creation covered in no less than 35 kg of precious gold foil.
In the monument’s basement may be found the National History Museum which contains 48 dioramas portraying images from the history of Indonesia, stretching from prehistoric times to the modern era. The Independence Room features iconic objects relating to Indonesia’s independence including highlights like the Indonesian coat of arms and the original document of the Proclamation of Independence which is stored within a glass case. Visitors may also take the opportunity to obtain a bird’s eye view over the city from an observation deck located high up on the monument.
Nearby visitors will see a large picturesque pond which contributes to the beauty of the site and also functions as a means of cooling water for the air conditioning system. A striking statue of Prince Diponegoro, a national hero of Indonesia crafted by Cobertaldo, a well-known Italian sculptor may also be seen near the monument.
Many other historical and cultural attractions may also be seen in Jakarta, a cosmopolitan and captivating city, including sites relating to Indonesian history such as the Presidential Palace, the Proclamation Building and a host of fascinating museums. Jakarta is always an engrossing city to explore, offering many sites and areas of interest.
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