Thursday, May 7, 2009

The National Monument (MONAS)


The National Monument

The unitary state of the Republic of Indonesia is an archipelago that spans across the equator, from Sabang in the west to Merauke in the east. This vast nation proclaimed its independence on August, 17, 1045 after 350 years of colonial rulings.

In order to commemorate and to honor the people’s relentless struggle for independence, also known as the “Indonesian People’s Revolt For Independence August 17. 1945, and in an attempt to awaken a sense of patriotism among the people and future generations to come to the government deemed it necessary to construct a monument. This monument was later known as the National Monument (Monas).

The architecture and dimensions of the National Monument symbolizes the distinct characteristics of Indonesia. The high rising Obelisk signifies the Lingga (pestle) and the saucer like platform the Yoni (Mortar), both are cooking utensils that are commonly found in most Indonesian.

On the top of the Monument stands a gold plated bronze flame that symbolizes the everlasting spirit to defend the sovereignty of the nation.

What Inside the National Monument

The History Museum

The museum is located meters below the surface of the courtyard. The walls, floor and pillars within this 80m X 80m hall are made entirely of marbles. Twelve diorama line the walls along the four sides of the museum Hall. The dioramas depict a series of historical events from pre-history Indonesia to the struggle for independence and the referendum for self determination by the people of Irian Jaya (Papua) in 1969.

The Hall of Independence

Within the saucer-like platform of the national monument (Middle Platform) is the hall of independence, which takes the form of an amphitheater. The halls holds the four principal components relating to Indonesia’s independence; a map of the Indonesian archipelago, the Sang Saka Merah Putih (the flag raised during the proclamation of independence), the Indonesian coat of arms “Bhineka Tunggal Ika” (unity in diversity) and the proclamation of independence text (as written and read by Soekarno and Hatta on August 17, 1945)

The Lookout Platform

115 meters above the base of the National Monument is the 11m x 11m Lookout Platform. This platform provide 360 degree view of Jakarta. A single elevator will take visitors to the Lookout Platform.

The Flame of Independence


The flame like structure at the top of the National Monument is 14 meters tall and 6 meters in diameter. This structure is made of 14,5 tons of Bronze and comprises of 77 separate elements. The entire surface of the structure is covered with approximately 50 kg of gold sheets.















NOENTRANCE FEE UP TO MIDDLE PLATFORMUP TO LOOK OUT PLATFORM
1AdultsRp. 2.500,-Rp. 7.500,-
2ChildrenRp. 1.000,-Rp. 3.500,-
3StudentRp. 1.000,-Rp. 3.500,-



Opening Hours
Open daily, including Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays. 08.30 AM – 05.00 PM.
Closed On Final Mondays of each Months.

Address :
Jalan Silang Monas Jakarta
Phone : +62-21-3447 733, 3504 333

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