Fascinating Facts about Palembang, the Oldest City in Indonesia

When asked about the oldest city in Indonesia, perhaps not many would think of Palembang, the capital of South Sumatra Province. But it’s true. Last June 17, the city celebrated its 1,341^th anniversary! Wow!

As cited in various sources, the 352-square-kilometers city was founded in 682 AD when the Srivijaya empire was under the reign of Dapunta Hyang Sri Jayanasa. This information is extracted from the Kedukan Bukit inscription.

The inscription was first discovered by the Dutch colonizer C.J. Batenburg at Kedukan Bukit, Palembang, when he visited the site 103 years ago on November 29, 1920.

The stone inscription measures 45 x 80 centimeters and was written in Pallava script and the Old Malay language. It commemorated the return of Dapunta Hyang’s troops to the capital of the empire after their conquest of Minanga. The Kedukan Bukit inscription was created as a token of their gratitude and joy.

In addition to being the oldest city in Indonesia, there are some other interesting facts you should know about when you make a trip to Palembang. Curious? Let’s check them out.

3 Facts about Palembang

Ampera Bridge, Palembang’s Iconic Landmark

Your trip to Palembang won’t be complete without a visit to the Ampera Bridge, the iconic landmark of the city called the Land of Srivijaya. Officially opened in 1965, the bridge crosses the Musi River and serves as the main route that connects Seberang Ulu and Seberang Ilir.

The Ampera Bridge was known as the longest bridge in Southeast Asia shortly after its official opening. At 1,177 meters long and 22 meters wide, the bridge captivated the neighboring ASEAN countries and has since become the pride of the local citizens.

Today, in addition to serving as the main route, the Ampera Bridge is also often visited by tourists. You can enjoy many activities here. For example, you may take pictures with the scenic bridge in the background, or savor the culinary delights available nearby. In short, when you visit Palembang, don’t forget to sightsee around this location!

The Giant Qur’an at the Bayt Al-Qur’an Al-Akbar Museum

While Palembang is synonymous with culinary and heritage tourism, the city also offers a religious attraction that will pique your interest. At the Bayt Al-Qur’an Al-Akbar museum, a giant Qur’an measuring 15 meters in height is on display.

As cited in kompas.com, the giant Qur’an is presented in wooden sheets of 177 x 140 x 2.5 centimeters engraved in gold with uniquely Palembang art styles. The work comprises at least 630 pages that contain 30 juz’s (chapters) of the Qur’an, complete with tajwīd (recitation) and Khatm Qur’an prayers (after the conclusion of the entire Qur’an recitation).

The museum was officially opened to the public on January 30, 2012, during the presidency of Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono. The making of the giant Qur’an cost up to IDR 2 billion.

Pempek, a Staple Food

As a tourist, you may feel that pempek is the perfect gift after returning from Palembang. You’re not the only one, though! In fact, most tourists always put this dish on the list of gifts they will bring back from their trip to Palembang.

For the citizens of Palembang, however, pempek is a staple that should be served daily. Curiously, the dish – served with sour vinegar sauce called cuko – is a popular breakfast among the locals, when their stomachs are empty. As for you, it’s best to stay away from sour foods while on the road to avoid upset stomach.

In addition, pempek is ever-present at every event. Whatever the occasion may be, pempek must be served. This also shows how this fish-based dish is deeply connected with the locals who mostly work as fishermen.

Those are some information and facts about Palembang, the city regarded as the oldest in Indonesia. So, are you interested in going on vacation to the city? Plan your trip to the Land of Srivijaya now! Explore a wide variety of fascinating tourist attractions, and treat yourself to the rich culinary delights of Palembang!

Explore the Many Tourist Attractions in Palembang with TRAC Car Rental Services

You can use car rental services to fully enjoy your trip. This way, you will have a more pleasant vacation experience since you can save your energy on the road.

With safe and reliable car rental services in Palembang, TRAC offers the right solution to you. TRAC is here to help with your vacation need for car rental services, with or without a driver.

For an easy booking experience, you can book via the TRACtoGo app. Install TRACtoGo now via Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Become a member and enjoy the benefits of TRAC services.

Follow any track with TRAC!