This pair of unlikely places of worship sit across the road from one another in grand style on Jalan Katedral.
Completed in 1901, Gereja Katedral is a spectacular Catholic cathedral which is open to the public for prayer and meditation throughout the day. Inside, the vast interior opens up to towering ceilings of draw dropping beauty and row upon row of basic wooden pews. Most people will want to snag a few photos of this impressive church and immediately carry on across the road to Masjid Istiqlal.
Inaugurated in 1978 after 17 years of construction, the imposing Masjid Istiqlal is Indonesia’s largest mosque. Although many would argue that it is not as picturesque as the church across the road, it is the inside of this mosque where the best views are seen. From here it is possible to grasp the immensity of the five-storey structure and the vastness of the dome which sits above. It’s possible to enter the mosque if dressed appropriately and it’s especially fascinating to be in the grounds during Friday prayers when thousands of people attend.
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