Negeri Sumatera Utara Museum Houses Diverse Artifacts

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – Negeri Sumatera Utara Museum houses artifacts from ancient to modern artworks, offering visitors an immersive journey through the region's rich cultural heritage. Located at Jalan H.M. Joni in Medan, this prominent institution was officially inaugurated in April 1982 by Minister of Education and Culture Dr. Daoed Yoesoef.

The museum's historical significance traces back to 1954 when the first collection piece, a stone makara, was laid by Indonesia's first president, Ir. Soekarno. Because of this foundational artifact, the complex is widely known among locals and historians as Gedung Arca.

Architecturally, the two-story main building spans over 10,000 square meters and showcases traditional design elements reflecting various ethnic groups of North Sumatra. Its roof features distinct ornamental styles representing the Malay, Batak Toba, Simalungun, Karo, Mandailing, Pakpak, and Nias communities.

As a comprehensive general museum, it houses nearly 6,800 diverse items ranging from prehistoric tools and Hindu-Buddhist temple relics to colonial-era commodities. Visitors can explore well-curated galleries dedicated to ancient megalithic artifacts, handwritten traditional manuscripts on tree bark, and Islamic heritage items.

The exhibition spaces also highlight the heroic struggle of North Sumatra's people, featuring vintage weaponry, communication devices, and portraits of national heroes. Furthermore, dedicated sections honor former provincial governors who played pivotal roles in shaping and developing the region's modern infrastructure.

Open to the general public from Tuesday through Sunday, the museum welcomes students, researchers, and history enthusiasts for an affordable admission fee of Rp3,000. Operating hours run between 09.00 and 16.00 WIB, providing ample time for guests to explore the exhibits and find aesthetic photo spots.

Ultimately, this cultural landmark stands as an invaluable window into the past, bridging ancient traditions with modern artistic expressions. Through its extensive collections and educational programs, the institution remains a cornerstone of historical preservation in Sumatra.