Witnessing Historic Buildings, Semarang Tawang Station

Traveling, while capturing historical traces in the various places we stop at. This time I stopped at Semarang Tawang Station in the city of Semarang. This station holds an important historical significance for railways in Indonesia.

I took the train from my hometown, Solo. To Semarang Tawang, I took the Banyubiru train. The fare was $2.50.

Arriving at Semarang Tawang Station, the classic vibe was immediately felt. Indeed, the building's architecture, which dates back to the Dutch era, still retains its charm.

Well, various sources say that this station was inaugurated in 1914.

Semarang Tawang Station played a vital role in the Dutch East Indies trade route. Formerly, this station belonged to the Dutch colonial government, initially focused on transporting merchandise. Then, over time, passenger lines were built, particularly for the main route from Yogyakarta to Solo, which was an important royal route at that time.

Uniquely, Semarang Tawang Station was built on a swamp. However, the station faced the risk of frequent flooding when the Java Sea overflowed. Despite this, the station has survived to this day.

Indeed, the influence of Dutch rule is strongly felt in Indonesia, especially in Semarang, a major route for colonial rule and trade. That's why the area around Semarang Tawang Station is home to many former Dutch colonial office and shop buildings.

The area around Semarang Tawang Station is known as Semarang's Old Town. It has now been designated a cultural heritage site by the government, and the Dutch colonial-era buildings remain preserved as part of its history.

Some sources say that Semarang Tawang Station was indeed the most beautiful station in the Dutch East Indies at the time. I agree with that statement. The station hall certainly looks magnificent. The classic vibe is very strong today.

I saw these photos from a source. You can see the upper dome is influenced by European architecture.

So are some of the winged reliefs on the exposed brick walls. It's stunning, isn't it?

From the outside, Semarang Tawang Station looks majestic. With a classic style. Dominated by white. With a dome on top.

Also, the building's distinctive arches.

On the exterior, I also noticed an old clock, further enhancing the classic colonial vibe.

Then, walking around the Semarang Tawang Station area, you'll notice what appears to be a canal designed to mitigate the effects of flooding if sea and swamp overflows hit Semarang Tawang Station.

Next time, I'll take you to the other side of Semarang's old town, also known as Little Netherland. That's all for my story about Semarang. See you!

Best Regards,
Anggrek Lestari