The Indigo river running through civilizations

The word “Citarum” is coined from two words: “Ci” and “Tarum”. In Sundanese language, “Ci” means water, while “Tarum” is a type of plant (Indigofera sp.) that produces the color indigo.

Archaeological records show that the civilization of Tarumanegara, the oldest Hindu kingdom in West Java, bloomed along the river in 358 AD.

Starting from a small hamlet built by Jayasinghawarman, it later developed into a kingdom.

The kingdom is located in what is known as the Banten area.

The role of Citarum has been vital since its beginning.

It once became the borderline for two kingdoms: Galuh and Sunda (the other name of Tarumanegara in 670 AD).

In the 15th century, Citarum once again played its political role as the borderline between the Cirebon and Banten sultanate.

During the Dutch colonial period, Citarum became a transportation route that connected the rural areas with the coastal areas to transport harvests.

There are more than 20 streams that connect with the Citarum River, including Cikapundung, Cibeureum, Ciwidey and Cimahi.

Although Citarum in the past was well preserved, historical records show that the river causes floods.

Therefore, in 1810, then Bandung regent R.A. Wiranatakusuma II relocated the capital of Bandung from Krapyak or Dayeuh Kolot to the current position in central Bandung.

– JP/Tifa Asrianti