TcodeX A village holds traces of history at the end of Cirebon’s expanse. This small village, whose inhabitants live as stone craftsmen, drew my attention to learn more. Bobos Village, as it’s called, has been filled with the sound of chiseling for years. However, the village, which only produces natural stone, now has a tourist destination that attracts attention. How so?
The History of Bobos Village
Bobos is not just a name. It turns out that the name has a history, so it is called Bobos.
In the past, territorial struggles occurred between the kingdom of Galuh and the Sultanate of Cirebon. However, every army that tried to conquer it always failed before reaching this region. No one knows whether it is because of a clever war strategy or a mystical force that protects. This story gave rise to the name Bobos, which people believe comes from the word “jelebos,” meaning to penetrate but fail.
Around the village of Bobos, people also recognize “Batu Gajah,” a large rock that soldiers are said to have used as a hiding place when fighting the kingdom of Galuh. This story makes Bobos village identically known for its stone crafts.
Stone Craftsmen as the Main Livelihood
Stone has always been the lifeblood of Bobos. Around 60% of its residents make a living from stone crafts, turning them into building materials, sculptures, and ornaments. People continue to promote this skill as a potential livelihood for Bobos residents. Bukit Lumpang is a natural hill featuring unique rock formations and stunning views within this small village. Who would have thought that a hill only considered part of the village scenery could be a potential tourist attraction?
Bukit Lumpang: A Hill That Become Tourist Destination
In 2022, the village government began pioneering the development of Bukit Lumpang as a tourist destination. Then, in 2024, the West Java Tourism Office officially designated the village as a tourist village.
The village government is trying to apply for grants from the provincial government and the tourism ministry. If approved, this could be a significant stepping stone for the continued development of Bukit Lumpang. However, most of the investment still comes from community self-help, no capital, no tools, just gotong royong. While waiting for the proposed funds, bobos villagers are doing what they can. Because for them, Bukit Lumpang is not just an ordinary place but a new hope.
In 2025, many people have started to recognize it. However, Bukit Lumpang still needs much improvement to become a tourist destination that attracts many visitors. If this destination undergoes further development later, Bukit Lumpang can become an icon for Bobos. This Bobos village is also famous even though it is at the western end of the Cirebon district. The town, directly adjacent to the Majalengka district, still maintains its beauty.
Bobos village is interesting because of its history, stone artisans, and tourism and because the villagers are highly aware of the environment. This also impressed me because although the natural stone industry is the main livelihood, the villagers still try to maintain a balance so that the environment remains sustainable. Bobos villagers are active in monthly gotong royong activities. Residents demonstrate environmental awareness by managing waste and following a routine waste collection system. Residents’ sensitivity to the environment makes Bobos Village clean, sustainable, and comfortable.
By Sindi Nur Alpiyah
