Lawang Sewu
Java Region
Lawang Sewu is a historic former office building located in Semarang, Central Java, Indonesia, originally serving as the head office of the Dutch East Indies Railway Company. The name "Lawang Sewu" translates to "a thousand doors" in Javanese, referencing its numerous doors and approximately 600 large windows. The complex consists of multiple buildings, with two main structures named A and B, featuring distinctive architectural elements such as stained-glass windows, grand staircases, and twin water towers. Designed by Cosman Citroen in the New Indies Style, the building blends traditional and modern architectural influences. During the Japanese occupation in World War II, the building's basement was used as a prison and torture chamber, contributing to its reputation for being haunted. After Indonesia's independence, the complex was used by the national railway company and later declared a Cultural Property of Indonesia. Renovations in the 21st century aimed to restore the building and transform it into a museum and heritage railway gallery, attracting many visitors annually. Today, Lawang Sewu stands as a significant cultural and historical landmark, reflecting Indonesia's colonial past and architectural heritage.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to explore Lawang Sewu during daylight hours to fully appreciate its architectural details and historical exhibits. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially during weekends and holidays, to avoid long queues. Guided tours are available and can enrich the experience by providing detailed historical context. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. The site is accessible by public transport and has nearby parking facilities.
Interesting facts
- •The name 'Lawang Sewu' means 'a thousand doors', but the building actually has about 600 large windows.
- •The building features two identical water towers, each capable of holding 7,000 liters of water.
- •The basement of the B building was used as a dungeon and site of torture during the Japanese occupation in World War II.
- •A tunnel once connected the A building to other important sites in Semarang, including the governor's mansion and the harbor.
- •The building is designed in the New Indies Style, a transitional architectural style blending traditional and modern influences.
History
Construction of Lawang Sewu began in 1904 and was completed in stages, with the main building finished by 1907 and the entire complex completed in 1919.
It originally served as the headquarters of the Nederlandsch-Indische Spoorweg Maatschappij, the first railway company in the Dutch East Indies.
During World War II, the Japanese army occupied the building and used the basement as a dungeon for torture and executions.
After Indonesia's independence, the building was taken over by the Indonesian army and later returned to the national railway company.
In 1992, it was officially designated as a Cultural Property of Indonesia.
Extensive renovations were undertaken in the early 21st century to preserve the building and promote it as a tourist attraction.
Place Guide
A Building1904-1907
The L-shaped main building facing Tugu Muda roundabout, featuring twin water towers originally used for water storage, large stained-glass windows, and a grand central staircase.
B BuildingCompleted by 1919
Located behind the A building, this three-story structure includes office spaces on the first two floors, a ballroom on the third, and a partially flooded basement used for cooling.
Monument in front of A BuildingPost-1945
A monument dedicated to five employees killed during the Indonesian National Revolution, standing prominently in front of the A building.
Contact
Phone: 0812-1516-8808
