The Kaibon Palace is located in Banten, Indonesia, and this time I will tell you about it as part of a historical site about a glorious kingdom in one of Indonesia's regions.
Things about kingdoms are always interesting to discuss. Especially since my country is now a republic, not a kingdom like in the past.
Historical tourism offers me the opportunity to learn more about past kingdoms in various regions of this vast Indonesia, with many kingdoms, each with its own unique characteristics.
Arriving in Banten, I was drawn to the historical sites in the Old Banten area. Known as the Old Banten area because it's located at the edge and consists of several historical sites.
One of the sites highlighted in my search was the Kaibon Palace site. I was very surprised. This historical site was the first large one I had seen.
From the roadside, I saw a sign reading the name of this kingdom, Kaibon Palace.
Entrance is free, but if you bring a motorcycle, there is a fee for motorcycle security. Even though it's free, the Kaibon Palace area is remarkably clean, with no trash.
I even saw janitors diligently cleaning the area. It's a shame, considering there are so many expensive tourist attractions that are so dirty. Give this historic place a lot of credit.
Before actually entering the Kaibon Palace, I read the information board about the Kaibon Palace. I wondered where all the ruins had gone, as only the sturdy remains of the building remained attached to the ground. There were no ruins at all, just lying there.
From the information board, I learned that the Kaibon Palace was destroyed by the Dutch. During Dutch rule, the Banten Sultanate, or Kingdom, was abolished. So, it was deliberately destroyed, and the reusable parts of the building were used to construct offices and for Dutch officials in Indonesia at that time.
The entrance gates to the Kaibon Palace are distinctive. The walls, judging by the remaining debris, give the impression of being a royal fortress.
From the entrance gate, I saw what looked like a rather high altar area. Many steps were built on both sides.
I think it probably served as a public prayer space or a public gathering area.
There are distinctive curves in the mosque area. Indeed, the Kaibon Palace is Islamic and is also known as the Banten Sultanate.
On a clear day, I think these portraits of the ruins are quite beautiful. My apologies, but the photos I took are blurry due to the dark sky, which is about to rain.
The Kaibon Palace area is very expansive. There's a park that's perfect for morning or evening jogging while exploring the grounds.
Other areas feel mysterious, like I'm imagining a room tour of a past house, but only the ruins remain.
The partitions between the areas amaze me. Look at how large the gates are that mark each area.
I'm amazed by the strength of the building, and the gates are still sturdy.
Walking around the Kaibon Palace makes me wonder at the grandeur of the once-glorious kingdom.
Although I only see ruins now, that splendor still radiates. Thank you for reading my journey.
Thank you for reading my blog. Greetings from Indonesia.
All photos I took using my phone camera.