Istiqlal Mosque

Built as the National Mosque during Indonesia’s post-independence fervour for establishing an identity on the international stage, modernist Istiqlal Mosque is an imposing marble-clad, concrete and steel example of International Style architecture and reputedly the largest mosque in Southeast Asia, able to accommodate 200,000 worshippers.

Help us hold our breath. Donate to Travelfish today!
Click here for more information on how you can help.

The location follows Javanese town planing traditions that the masjid agung (grand mosque) should be positioned near the kraton (Sultan’s palace) facing the alun-alun (city square), the “Sultan’s palace” in this case being Istana Merdeka, the presidential palace. As a symbol of the principals of Pancasila (Indonesia’s philosophical foundation) which includes a vision for a multi-faith tolerant society, it is perhaps not an accident that the mosque sits between Jakarta’s Catholic Cathedral and the Protestant Immanuel Church (although it is significantly larger ... Travelfish members only (Full text is around 500 words.)

Get the full story.
Create an account.

Join Travelfish

Becoming a Travelfish subscriber costs A$35 for a year. Benefits include:
1) Full access to the site
2) 250+ PDF guides
3) Discount coupons
4) 50% off our travel planning service
5) And of course, our gratitude and a warm fuzzy feeling for helping us stay in business!