KBRN Yogyakarta: The Vredeburg Fort Museum, nestled at the southernmost of Yogyakarta's famous Malioboro Street, at the city's zero-kilometer point, is a testament to the province's rich and complex history.

This Dutch colonial-era fort, built in 1760, offers a captivating journey through Indonesia's struggle for independence.

Originally named Rustenburg ("fort of rest"), the fort was constructed by the Dutch ostensibly to protect Sultan Hamengkubuwono I as he built the Yogyakarta Palace.

However, the fort actually served as a symbol of Dutch colonial dominance, aimed at controlling activities within the palace.

The British-made cannon, a relic from the Vredeburg Fort, is a historical witness of the past. (Photo: RRI English/Naura Sofia)

Following a devastating earthquake, the fort was renamed Vredeburg, meaning "fortress of peace."

In the 1980s, under the guidance of Sultan Hamengkubuwono IX and the Minister of Education and Culture, the fort transformed, becoming a significant cultural information center.

On November 23, 1992, the Vredeburg Fort Museum officially opened to the public and became one of the best museums for understanding Indonesia's struggle for independence.

One of the exhibits at the Vredeburg Fort Museum portrayed the fight for Indonesian independence. (Photo: RRI English/Naura Sofia)

The museum houses four diorama galleries that depict key moments in Indonesian history, including the Diponegoro War, the Proclamation of Independence in 1945, the Dutch Military Aggression, and President Suharto's reign.

"It's truly fascinating," said Rizky Alfa, a Bogor, West Java visitor. "The museum vividly portrays the Dutch colonial era. It's informative, and I particularly enjoyed the digital exhibits."

The Vredeburg Fort Museum boasts a comprehensive collection of over 7,600 artifacts, including original items used by historical figures and replicas and paintings created by Yogyakarta artists.

Dream Corner facilities at the museum allow children to draw and display their dreams on a screen. (Photo: RRI English/Naura Sofia)

Recognizing the importance of accessibility, the museum has implemented various features to accommodate visitors with disabilities, including wheelchairs, guiding blocks for the visually impaired, ramps, handrails, and braille books.

"This museum is inclusive, not exclusive," emphasized Muri Kurniawati, a museum curator. "We strive to create an accessible and welcoming environment for all."

The museum attracts diverse visitors, including domestic and international tourists.

On average, it welcomes up to a thousand visitors daily, with a significant increase on weekends and holidays. International visitors, particularly from the Netherlands, the UK, Australia, Japan, China, and Germany, frequently visit the museum.

"The architecture is classic and nice. This is our first time here, and it's perfect for playing at night. Besides that, the facilities are also complete; there is a prayer room, children's playground, disability facilities, and it is still clean," said Fira, a student from North Sumatra who visited this museum on Wednesday (Jan 15).

One of the visitors looked at a replica of the heroes fighting for independence. (Photo: RRI English/Naura Sofia)

Beyond historical exhibits, the Vredeburg Fort Museum offers a variety of engaging activities, including workshops, competitions, and guided bicycle tours to historical sites.

The annual Vredeburg Fair presents a unique opportunity for the museum community to showcase its work and engage with the public.

Entrance fees:

Admission tickets to this 46,574 square-meter museum are categorized based on several criteria, including domestic and international visitors, age, and time of entry (morning or afternoon).

Domestic tourists:

Weekdays: IDR 10,000 (children), IDR 20,000 (adults morning), IDR 25,000 (adults afternoon)

Weekends: IDR 15,000 (children), IDR 20,000 (adults morning), IDR 25,000 (adults afternoon)

International tourists: IDR 30,000 - IDR 50,000

Operating Hours:

Weekdays: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time

Weekends: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time

The Vredeburg Fort Museum in Yogyakarta is more than just a repository of historical artifacts. It is a vibrant cultural hub that offers a unique and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. ***