Kota Lama & Blenduk Church – Little Amsterdam in Semarang
What Makes This District Special
Kota Lama, often nicknamed “Little Amsterdam”, serves as Semarang’s historical heart—preserving over 50 colonial-era buildings from the 18th to early 20th centuries (turn0search13). Stroll through its cobbled streets and you’ll be immersed in a heritage-rich area dotted with stylish cafés, art galleries, local museums, and antique shops.
Blenduk Church: A Timeless Landmark
Blenduk Church, officially GPIB Immanuel, is one of the oldest and most recognizable structures in the district. Founded in 1753, it originally had a traditional Javanese joglo-style form—complete with a wooden stilted structure and classic roof design. Between 1787–1794, renovations transformed it into its current European-influenced appearance, and in 1894–1895, architects H.P.A. de Wilde and W. Westmaas further enhanced it with its iconic red copper dome, twin towers, and Neo-classical Pseudo-Baroque flair (turn0search0, turn0search8).
Its base features an octagonal plan that supports the grand dome—‘blenduk’ in Javanese means “domed,” which inspired its local nickname. Inside, you’ll find a restored Baroque organ, elegant stained-glass panels, teak wood pews, and a spiral staircase crafted by a Dutch foundry (turn0search3, turn0search5, turn0search11).
Why It’s More Than Just a Sightseeing Spot
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Architectural Richness: A visually stunning example of cultural fusion—from Javanese roots to European grandeur.
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Heritage District: Kota Lama is a living museum, offering a well-preserved snapshot of colonial history.
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Vibrant Atmosphere: The area buzzes with trendy cafés, galleries, and artistic vibes—perfect for both leisure and exploration.
Quick Snapshot
| Feature | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Kota Lama | Historic district with colonial architecture & creative vibes |
| Blenduk Church | 1753 church, revamped into Neo-classical Chapel with red dome, twin towers, and octagonal layout |
Day Trips & Attractions Around Semarang
- Dusun Semilir (Bawen, Ngempe)
An eco-themed park inspired by Borobudur, with domed structures, lush landscapes, Instagram-worthy spots, rides, and a villa resort. - Gumuk Reco Sepakung
Scenic cliffside with swings and vantage points over green hills—budget-friendly - Gedong Songo Temple
A temple complex on the highlands near Semarang, offering 9th-century Hindu architectural ruins and panoramic mountain views—perfect for hiking and exploration. - Further Destinations
You might also explore nearby towns like Kendal (Indah Kemangi Beach, Sewu Waterfall), Purwodadi (Widuri Waterfall, Gulingan Jungle Park), Salatiga, Ungaran, and Ambarawa for a diverse regional experience.
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