Gadang Clock: Unique Facts on West Sumatra Clocks, Indonesia

November 03, 2021

Trip Dalgano - Destination | Hello friends, on this occasion we will discuss the topic of the province of West Sumatra, namely Gadang Clock: Unique Facts on West Sumatra Clocks, Indonesia. This destination is a tourist spot that is very suitable to spend vacation time and unwind from daily activities, this destination also presents the uniqueness of the city of Padang. Given that the Provinces of Aceh and North Sumatra are no less interesting than their natural destinations, read Destinations in Aceh. And more about the 5 Best Travel Destinations in North Sumatra, Indonesia.

This is Gadang Clock: Unique Facts on West Sumatra Clocks, Indonesia

1. Called Big Ben's Twin

Called Big Ben's Twin

This clock tower is more than 100 years old, many say the Gadang clock and Big Ben are the same because both are landmarks of their respective cities. And besides, the propulsion engine used, there are only two in the world. The first is used for the Clock Tower and the second is used by Big Ben. Although they have almost the same shape, the Big Ben and Jam Gadang towers are clearly different, Jam Gadang is made in a modern style with a 26-meter high tower in the shape of a Minangkabau traditional house. While Big Ben is designed in a Victorian Gothic style with a pointed spire and a height of 96 meters.

2. Writing Number 4

Writing Number 4

One of the uniqueness of the Bukittinggi Clock Tower that is being discussed lies in the number four. Unlike the number IV in Roman script, the number 4 in the Clock Tower of Bukittinggi is written with III. The surrounding community did not believe that number IIII was made to commemorate the four workers who died due to work accidents. In addition to the story, some state that the number IV is interpreted as "I Victory" which means I win. To avoid the meaning of "I won" for fear of causing problems, the number 4 is written as IIII.

3. The Tower Clock Tower Has Been Changed Several Times

The Tower Clock Tower Has Been Changed Several Times

Since its establishment, Jam Gadang has undergone three changes to the shape of the roof. Initially founded during the Dutch East Indies government, the roof of the Jam Gadang is round with a statue of a rooster facing east on it. Then during the Japanese occupation, it was converted into a pagoda. Finally, after Indonesia's independence, the roof of the Jam Gadang was changed to the shape of a gonjong or the roof of the Minangkabau traditional house, Rumah Gadang. The last renovation of the Jam Gadang was in 2010 by the Indonesian Heritage Preservation Agency with the support of the Bukittinggi City government and the Dutch Embassy in Jakarta. The renovation was inaugurated on the 262nd anniversary of Bukittinggi City on December 22, 2010.

4. One of the Icons of Bukit Tinggi City

One of the Icons of Bukit Tinggi City

The construction of the Jam Gadang cost around 3,000 Guilders, which was a fantastic amount for that time. So since it was built and inaugurated, this clock tower has become the center of everyone's attention. This also caused the Clock Tower to be used as a marker or landmark and also the zero point of Bukittinggi City. Clock Tower is also one of the icons of Bukit Tinggi City and a favorite spot for tourists.

5. Gift of the Queen of the Netherlands

Gift of the Queen of the Netherlands

Citing the Bukittinggikota.go.id page, Jam Gadang was a gift from the Queen of the Netherlands to Rook Maker, secretary or controleur of Fort de Kock "now Bukittinggi City" during the reign of the Dutch East Indies. Completed in 1926, Jam Gadang itself was designed by Yazid Rajo Mangkuto, a Minangkabau merchant during the Dutch East Indies. Meanwhile, the laying of the first stone was done by Rook Maker's son, who was 6 years old at that time.

Okay, I think the discussion is over, thank you for visiting our blog. And have read articles about Gadang Clock: Unique Facts on West Sumatra Clocks, Indonesia. Hopefully, it will be useful for Indonesian netizens, especially Netizen +1 who are curious about this destination, and this destination is also highly recommended for those of you who are in West Sumatra, precisely in the high hill area, don't forget to stop by this unique icon okay. In addition, the beach can also be used as a vacation spot for someone who likes to enjoy how beautiful the beach is with strong sea breezes. Also, check out articles about lakes that must be visited in North Sumatra and beaches worth visiting. Learn more, and Find Tourism and Culinary In Indonesia.