10 Historical Tours in Ambon that Offer Traces of Maluku History

Discover historical tourist destinations in Ambon that are rich in stories about colonization and struggle, offering an in-depth experience of the past.

Ambon, the capital of Maluku Province, is not only famous for its natural beauty, but also for the long history that shaped this city.

From the Portuguese colonial period that began in the 16th century to the strong Dutch influence in this region, Ambon holds many places that are silent witnesses to the long journey of the Indonesian nation.

This city became a meeting center for various European nations who came to compete for the wealth of Maluku spices, as well as the birthplace of many important historical events for Indonesia.

For history lovers, Ambon is a destination that offers many historical sites to explore. Here are the 10 best historical tours that will take you along the trail of Maluku history in Ambon.

1. Amsterdam Fort

Amsterdam Fort, located in Leihitu District, Central Maluku Regency, is one of the most famous forts in Ambon. Built in 1637 by the Dutch, this fort is one of the important forts in the history of Dutch colonialism in Indonesia.

This fort served as a defense against attacks by other European nations and became a place to store weapons and a temporary detention center.

With very thick walls, reaching 47 cm, Amsterdam Fort provides an illustration of how strong the Dutch were in defending the Ambon region at that time. Although its size is not large, this fort has a very high historical value.

2. Ferangi Fort

Fort Ferangi, also known as Fort Victoria or Fort Kota Laha, was built by the Portuguese in 1575. This fort is one of the most important sites in the formation of Ambon City.

As the center of Portuguese government in Ambon, this fort played a vital role in controlling the spice-rich Maluku region. This fort was also used to protect Portuguese interests in eastern Indonesia.

With its rich history, Fort Ferangi is one of the symbols of the Portuguese colonial era in Ambon and is well worth a visit.

3. Fort Victoria

Victoria Fort is one of the oldest Portuguese relics in Ambon, built in 1575. The fort is located in the center of Ambon, close to Merdeka Square. Originally used to store food supplies and goods brought from Europe, the fort also served as a defense.

After the Dutch took over Ambon, the fort underwent major renovations after an earthquake in 1754, and was renamed Nieuw Victoria.

Victoria Fort is not only evidence of the glory of the Portuguese and Dutch in Maluku, but also has a very high historical value in the development of the city of Ambon.

4. Siwalima Museum

Siwalima Museum is the right place to learn more about Ambon’s history and culture. This museum consists of two main parts, namely the ethnographic museum and the marine museum.

The ethnography section houses a collection of objects related to the lives of indigenous Maluku tribes, such as miniature traditional houses, traditional clothing, and household utensils.

On the other hand, the marine museum displays a collection depicting the marine life of the Maluku people, including the skeleton of a giant fish found in the waters around Ambon.

The Siwalima Museum not only provides historical insight, but also introduces the richness of Maluku’s culture and nature.

5. Wapauwe Mosque

Wapauwe Mosque, built in 1414 AD, is the oldest mosque in Maluku and one of the oldest mosques in Indonesia. The mosque was built with traditional materials, using dried sago palm fronds and a roof made of rumbia leaves.

The square shape of the building and its unique construction without using nails or pegs are a very interesting example of traditional architecture.

The Wapauwe Mosque is an important symbol of the spread of Islam in Maluku, and its presence provides evidence that Ambon has been a center of trade and meeting of various cultures for a long time.

6. Hawang Cave

Hawang Cave is one of the most interesting natural and historical tourist destinations in Ambon. This cave is submerged in sea water, with a very unique rock structure. Inside the cave there is a clear bluish pool which is the main attraction for tourists.

Apart from its natural beauty, Hawang Cave also holds local historical stories that have been passed down from generation to generation.

As a place that has historical value and extraordinary natural beauty, Hawang Cave is a must-visit tourist destination for those who want to experience the depth of Ambon’s history and its natural beauty.

7. World Peace Monument

The World Peace Monument, inaugurated in 2009, is a symbol of reconciliation efforts after the riots that hit Ambon in the late 20th century. This monument is shaped like a giant gong, which depicts the spirit of peace and harmony between religious communities in Ambon.

This monument is a reminder of the importance of maintaining unity and peace, as well as commemorating the inter-religious conflict that occurred between 1996 and 2002.

As one of the largest monuments in Indonesia, the World Peace Monument has a deep meaning in the journey of social and religious history in Ambon.

8. Ambon Commonwealth Cemetery Park

The Ambon Commonwealth Cemetery, or Ambon War Cemetery, is a place steeped in history, housing the remains of around 3,000 Allied soldiers who died in World War II. The cemetery is a memorial to those who fought against the Japanese forces in the Ambon region.

Every year, families of fallen soldiers come to commemorate the events of the Japanese internment of Gull Force.

This place is also the location of the AZNAC Day commemoration on April 25, where many families of soldiers from Australia and New Zealand come to remember the services of their heroes.

9. Pattimura Park

Pattimura Park is a monument built to commemorate Kapitan Pattimura, a national hero who was famous for his bravery in fighting the Dutch colonialists.

Kapitan Pattimura, who was born with the name Thomas Matulessy, led the greatest resistance against the Dutch at Duurstede Fort. As a tribute to his services, a statue of Kapitan Pattimura was erected in this park. Pattimura Park is also the center of Ambon community activities and is very easily accessible because it is located in the middle of the city.

This park is a comfortable place to commemorate the struggle of the Maluku hero as well as a gathering place for Ambon residents.

10. Indonesian Heritage Museum

The Nusantara Heritage Museum is a museum that has a collection of traditional arts and crafts from all over Indonesia. Here, you can find various cultural relics, such as jewelry, traditional clothing, and traditional art that reflect the richness of Indonesian culture.

In addition, this museum also focuses on collecting and preserving historical artifacts that are important for getting to know more about the richness of Indonesian culture.

The Nusantara Heritage Museum is the perfect place to enrich your knowledge about Indonesian history and culture, including the history of Ambon.

Ambon not only offers its natural beauty, but is also a place full of history. With various historical sites that illustrate the city ‘s long journey from colonial times to independence, Ambon is a must-visit for tourists who want to learn more about Indonesian history.

Every place you visit in Ambon will bring you closer to the stories of struggle, victory, and reconciliation that shaped this city. So, make sure to set aside time to visit the historical sites in Ambon, including Kalamata Fort, and dive into the rich history that exists.