Four Indonesian archeologists and historians have worked together to reveal exciting parts of the city’s history. 

Jakarta never ceases to entice – or repulse – many. Rows of glitzy skyscrapers and tree-lined boulevards in the capital’s central business districts showcase affluence. And yet, many of its 10 million inhabitants are forced to exist in its dark and smelly alleys. 

Nevertheless, the city has never lost its charms over many centuries. 

“Seen from any angle, Jakarta is always interesting,” historian Kartum Setiawan told The Jakarta Post during the launch of the book Cerita Kota (Tales of the City). The event was held at the Jakarta Maritime Museum in North Jakarta on Oct. 22. “Then and now, the city has always had a strong appeal.” 

Kartum, a museum assessor at the Education, Culture, Research and Technology Ministry, has always been intrigued by the city and its complex history. The historian collaborated with three colleagues – archeologist Ary Sulistyo, archeologist Mohammad Ali Fadillah and historian Tri Wahyuning M Irsyam – in writing Cerita Kota. 

“We see Jakarta as pages of history,” Ary Sulistyo said. “And in this book, we try to reconstruct some [of those pages] in a way that today’s readers will relate to.” 

The writers deliver the 186-page book in concise and easy-to-understand Indonesian. Ancient maps, tables and black-and-white pictures of the capital enhance its contents. 

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