Claimed to be one of the finest art spaces in the city, Museum MACAN features some of the most impressive works of modern art. This unique art space digs deep into the world of modern art, thorough a collection intriguing works that throw light on a vast number of cultural, historical and social situations of the country. Apart from its permanent art collection, the museum also doubles up as an educational venue, playing host to numerous workshops and exhibitions wherein various topics of art and culture are left open for discussion.
Built in 1829, this mosque features a fusion of Moorish and colonial architecture, evident from the pillars on the upper floor and the curved windows. One of Jakarta's oldest historical landmarks, it comprises two floors measuring eight by 24 meters and still functions today as a place of worship. It also draws many curious tourists, who are permitted to look around from the foyer. The first story houses the caretaker's living quarters. Dress modestly, and remove shoes before entering. Women must wear head scarves.
Gedung Pancasila started life as a mansion back in the 1830s. It served as the residence of Dutch officials and a meeting place for the Advisory People's Council of the Dutch East India Company. In 1945, Indonesia's founding father, President Soekarno, delivered his famous first speech on Pancasila (the five ideologies) here, thus lending the building its current name. Pancasila forms the foundation of the constitution of the Republic of Indonesia. Some important official events, such as the signing of agreements between countries, are held here on rare occasions. Admission is free, but permission is required.
This mosque was constructed in 1922 and previously housed the City Planning Department of Jakarta. Transformed to its current state in 1970, it boasts an elegant Dutch colonial architecture, with lovely stained-glass windows and a high ceiling. A concrete dome sits in graceful proportions in the middle of the structure. The interior comprises two ceramic-tiled floors and walls decorated with Arabic calligraphy that incorporates subtle Acehnese influence. Dress modestly, and remove shoes before entering. Women must wear head scarves.
This Hindu temple is decorated with images of the powerful Hindu god Shiva, to which it is dedicated. It was built as a small place of worship in 1954 by a group of Sindhis, who make up the majority of the Hindus in Jakarta. The building was refurbished and expanded to its present state in 1975 in order to accommodate the growing number of devotees. Dress modestly, and remove shoes before entering. Permission is required to visit this place of worship.
One of the premier event venues in the region, the Sentul International Convention Center (SICC) is located in the Sentul City area of Bogor, about 28 miles (46 kilo meters) from the capital of Jakarta. Spread over an area of 6.4 hectares (15.9 acres), this massive complex houses several venues, including an auditorium with a seating capacity of 10,500, an exhibition space, meeting rooms, and also VIP rooms, that make it the largest conference and convention center in Indonesia. See the website for more information.