cirebon cultural tourism March 10, 2025
Writer: Nurul Agustiyanti
Kasepuhan is one of the subdistricts in Lemahwungkuk District, Cirebon City, West Java. It covers an area of 66.6 hectares and had a population of 17,281 people in 2023 (8,754 males and 8,527 females). The subdistrict has nine neighborhood associations (RW) and 63 community units (RT). Topographically, most of Kasepuhan consists of lowland areas, which results in slower rainwater drainage and increases the risk of flooding. Due to its coastal location, the area’s average temperature ranges between 30 and 33 degrees Celsius. The intrusion of seawater also affects the soil conditions, causing some areas with low groundwater levels to have brackish water that is unsuitable for drinking. As a result, most residents rely on the Cirebon City Regional Water Company (PDAM) for their drinking water supply, which originates from Kuningan Regency.
The primary occupation of Kasepuhan residents is labor work, and most of the population adheres to Islam. Based on 2023 data, the average educational attainment of the residents is high school graduation.
Kasepuhan Subdistrict also boasts a rich cultural heritage and attractions worth visiting. Some of the notable cultural highlights include:
1. Keraton Kasepuhan
Kasepuhan is a cultural and historical icon located in the Kasepuhan Subdistrict. It features architecture rich in historical significance, with distinctive red brick walls and a traditional pavilion inside. Keraton Kasepuhan is the oldest palace in Cirebon, witnessing the glorious history of the Sultanate of Cirebon. Built in 1529 by Prince Mas Mochammad Arifin II, a descendant of Sunan Gunung Jati, the palace was originally known as Keraton Pakungwati. The name was taken from Ratu Ayu Pakungwati, wife of Sunan Gunung Jati and daughter of Ki Gede Wanantara. After undergoing several changes, the name of the palace then became Keraton Kasepuhan.
The palace is not only the residence of the sultan, but also the center of government, culture, and the spread of Islam in Cirebon. Since its establishment, the Sultanate of Cirebon has had a close relationship with other Islamic kingdoms in the archipelago, including the Sultanates of Demak and Mataram.
2. Sangkala Buana Square
Sangkala Buana is located right in front of Keraton Kasepuhan. This Square is the result of the renovation of Keraton Kasepuhan. This square hosts one of Cirebon’s traditions, Muludan. Vendors use this square area as a daily culinary attraction.
3. Panjang Jimat Tradition
This tradition is a well-known cultural heritage in Cirebon. In the 15th century, religious leaders in Cirebon, centered around its three main palaces—Kanoman, Kasepuhan, and Kacirebonan—adopted and integrated local traditions with palace customs. One of the ceremonies that people have preserved to this day is Panjang Jimat, also known as Pelal. This ceremony serves as the highlight of the Maulid Nabi Muhammad SAW (the celebration of the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday). It holds deep significance as an expression of reverence and reflection on the Prophet’s teachings and life journey.
Panjang refers to the shape of plates and historical kitchenware used to carry food, symbolizing the blessed birth of the Prophet Muhammad. Meanwhile, Jimat comes from the words Diaji and Dirumat, meaning “to be studied and practiced,” emphasizing the importance of learning and following Islamic teachings as exemplified by the Prophet.
3. Lawang Sanga
Lawang Sanga is the original entrance gate to Kasepuhan Palace during the reign of Syekh Syarif Hidayatullah. It serves as historical evidence of the establishment of the Cirebon Sultanate. Today, the site remains intact, characterized by its predominantly white-painted structure, and is located along the banks of the Kriyan River. Lawang Sanga is situated near Keraton Kasepuhan, in Mandalangan Village, Kasepuhan Subdistrict, Lemahwungkuk, Cirebon City. The structure was originally built close to the river, which is now known as the Kriyan River.
Additionally, Kasepuhan Subdistrict preserves its cultural heritage through various art studios, such as Sawo Kecik and Burok. Moreover, the subdistrict has economic potential driven by community initiatives, including the Mekar Berseri Waste Bank, which focuses on waste management, and the processing of butterfly pea flowers (Clitoria ternatea), which have significant economic value.
With its cultural and economic potential, Kasepuhan Subdistrict https://kelkesepuhan.cirebonkota.go.id/profile/ is vital in preserving local traditions and promoting economic development in Cirebon City.
For detail information please visit cirebonprofileandtourism
