Keraton Kesepuhan Cirebon: History Keraton and Tradition

Kesepuhan Palace

Keraton Kesepuhan di Cirebon, Jawa Barat, adalah istana bersejarah yang melambangkan perpaduan antara prinsip Islam dan tradisi Jawa. Warisan budaya ini mencerminkan pengaruh Sunan Gunung Jati, salah satu Wali Songo yang berperan penting menyebarkan Islam di Jawa. Dibangun pada abad ke-15, Keraton Kesepuhan merepresentasikan integrasi harmoni antara kebijaksanaan spiritual dan adat lokal, serta tetap menjadi landmark budaya dan spiritual yang melintasi batas agama..

Cirebon a city on the northern coast of Java, boasts a long and captivating history deeply intertwined with Islamic culture. This is magnificently showcased in the grandeur of Keraton Kasepuhan, a sprawling palace complex that has stood proudly since 1529. The Kasepuhan Palace and the artifacts stored within it represent a unique blend of three religions: Hinduism, Islam, and Buddhism, as well as three cultures: Javanese, Chinese, and European. This fusion makes the Kasepuhan Palace more exceptional compared to other palaces. Overall, the palace complex consists of the palace itself, the alun-alun (central square), and a mosque.

Keraton Kasepuhan Cirebon: Keraton is not just a historical site, but also a vibrant cultural hub.

The palace design mirrors Yogyakarta and Solo’s Islamic architecture. From a cultural perspective, the existence of Siti Hinggil and small pavilions are representations of Javanese architecture. Meanwhile, there are also wall ceramics featuring two distinct styles, European and Chinese. Keraton kesepuhan is not just a historical but also vibrant cultural hub, Witness traditional ceremonies like Panjang Jimat, held annually to commemorate the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday, and immerse yourself in the captivating essence of Cirebon’s heritage.

Keraton Kesepuhan Cirebon: History back in time and immerse yourself in the bygone era of Cirebon’s royalty

Prince Emas Zainul Arifin built Keraton Kesepuhan as an extension of the original Keraton Pangkuwati, constructed by Prince Cakrabuana in 1430. The vast 25-hectare complex encompasses various remarkable buildings, each with its own unique story to tell. Prince Cakrabuana and Sunan Gunung Jati performed dhikr and Sufi rituals here, shaping Cirebon’s cultural and religious heritage

( Writen by : Lili Aulia )