Five Fascinating Historic Sights in Medan, Indonesia

From the streets and hotels in Medan, Indonesia to its fascinating landmarks and attractions, one will easily notice the diverse influences that contributed to the country's rich culture. Here are 5 historic sites that can give visitors a look back into Indonesia's colorful past.

1. Maimoon Palace

Built in the late 1800s, the royal Maimoon Palace showcases unique interior and exterior designs influenced by Malay, Islam, Indian, and European architectural styles. Most of the building materials have been imported from different countries as ordered by Sultan Makmun Al Rasyid. Palace visitors can view photos of the royal family, antique furniture and weapons, and the sultan’s throne carefully embellished with crystal lights.  

2. Great Mosque of Medan

Located across the Maimoon Palace is the Great Mosque of Medan or Masjid Raya Medan. Like the palace, it also shows architectural influences from the Middle East and Europe. Some of the imported building materials used inside the chambers are marble from Italy and stained glass from France. The octagon-shaped mosque has been divided into 4 main wings, each one designed with decorative flowers and plants. Visitors are strongly advised to observe the proper attire before entering the mosque.

3. Sri Mariamman Temple

Built in 1881, Sri Mariamman Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Medan. It has been the primary meeting point of worshipers during the Thaipusam and Deevapali festivals. These occasions celebrate the triumph of the gods and the people over evil and darkness. Located in Little India, the temple features a golden “gopuram”, an ornate tower that houses the inner sanctuary.

4. Tjong A Fie’s Mansion 

Tjong A Fie’s Mansion is the former residence of Tjong A Fie, a Chinese businessman who built a large plantation in Sumatra and employed more than 10,000 workers. Completed in the 1900, the mansion showcases a classic Chinese-European-Art Deco style. Visitors are allowed to take pictures of the beautiful ceiling decorations, carved ornaments, and columns influenced by Eastern and Western architectural styles. This century-old gem has a photo gallery exhibit, lobby lounge, and a museum cafe that serves special Peranakan dishes. Travelers staying at Hotel Aryaduta Medan can reach the mansion easily with a 5-minute cab ride.

5. Vihara Gunung Timur

The Vihara Gunung Timur is a Taoist temple with a view overlooking the Babura River. It has a spacious paved area with an impressively scaled incense burner in the middle. During the Imlek and Cap Go Meh festivals, hundreds of worshipers celebrate at the temple’s large main hall. As the oldest and largest Taoist temple in Medan, it has become one of the city's cultural icons.

These attractions are easily accessible to some hotels in Medan, Indonesia like the Hotel Aryaduta Medan, where a 24-hour concierge can provide tour assistance.