Documenting Semarang, an Islamic Coastal City in Java – 2023
Semarang, a city established in the 15th century on Indonesia’s large Java island, sprang to importance from the 17th century when sedimentation dired up major coastal routes, and Samarang became the new port of call for froeign traders. To this day, one can see settlements dominated by Islam-spreading seafarers and traces of habour architecture. The architectural peculiarities, noted by Dutch colonialists, reveal the secrets of Islam’s early spread through Indonesia. For instance, many houses are ornamented with Islamic calligraphy.
But what the ocean gave to Semarang, it now threatens to take away. The stunning architectural trail is expected to sink beneath the waves in 30 years, largely due to land subsidence. Urgent documentation and dissemination were essential.
A survey was conducted of the coast, mapping the area and conducting a historical analysis using Dutch colonial maps and photos. By combining modern physical evidence with historic archival sources, the team was able to make a 3D model of the old buildings from two centuries ago.
Sinking cities are a rising risk around the world, and Indonesia is particularly at risk. It is vital to conserve what information we can, while we can.
