Classic Neo-Gothic Cathedral with an Indonesian Twist: Gereja Katedral Jakarta

In a brave public show of religious tolerance, directly opposite the Grand Mosque of Jakarta, Masjid Istiqlal, is sited the Gereja Katedral Jakarta (Catholic Cathedral of Jakarta). It is a grand building, a mixture of classic Neo-Gothic style with an Indonesian twist. The cathedral was first built here around 1901, though this current building is rather more recent.

Normally Neo-Gothic and Gothic styles use stone masonry throughout, but with Indonesia being so geologically active this particular cathedral made much more use of timber, with teak ceiling framework and metal spires. These spires are rather unique and interesting.

It’s official name is “Gereja Santa Maria Pelindung Diangkat Ke Surga” (from shows it’s Dutch origins; De Kerk van Onze Lieve Vrouwe ten Hemelopneming, which, in English is “The Church of our Lady of Assumption”)

In respect to this, there is a small groto outside dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

I did not realise when I visited but  there is an upper floor which functions as the Jakarta Cathedral Museum, housing the relics of Catholic rituals, such as the silver cups, hats and robes of the Dutch East Indies, Indonesian Archbishops and Cardinals. The museum also displays the history of Roman Catholicism in Indonesia.

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