Lawang Sewu - Brief History

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Name meaning

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Lawang Sewu = A Thousand Doors.

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The real number of doors

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Around 429 doors, with 1,200 windows that resemble doors, contributing to the myth of its name.

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Construction Period

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Construction began in 1904 and was completed in 1907.

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The Designer

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A Dutch architect Cosman Citroen. It showcases a blend of Dutch Rationalism adapted to the tropical climate.

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Original purpose

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It served as the headquarters for the first railway company.

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Materials used

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Imported materials included (1) granite stones from Bavaria, Germany around 350 cubic meters; (2) stained glass from Delft, the Netherlands, and (3) roof tiles from Venlo., the Netherlands

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Symbol of the Stained-glass Windows

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They depict the beauty of Java and the glory of the railroad during its heyday.

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Basement Functionality

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It was designed to be partially flooded, serving as a cooling system through evaporation.

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The Purpose of the Tunnel System

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It connected Building A to various sites in the city, including the governor's mansion and the harbor.

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During World War II

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The Japanese army took over and converted its basement into a dungeon for torture and executions.