Parkiran Makam Gus Dur: A Beautiful Legacy of a Great Leader
Gus Dur, the fourth president of Indonesia, left a great legacy behind him. One of his legacies is the Parkiran Makam Gus Dur, located in the city of Jombang, East Java. This parkiran, which means parking lot in Indonesian, is a beautiful place that serves as a resting place for the late president and a place of pilgrimage for his followers.
In this article, we will explore the history, architecture, and significance of Parkiran Makam Gus Dur. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about this remarkable site.
The History of Parkiran Makam Gus Dur
Parkiran Makam Gus Dur was constructed to accommodate the large number of visitors who came to pay their respects to the late president. Gus Dur passed away on December 30, 2009, and was buried in a simple but elegant grave located in the Tebuireng Islamic Boarding School in Jombang, where he once studied.
After the burial, millions of people flocked to the site to pay their respects to the late president. The crowds continued to grow larger each year, causing traffic congestion and difficulties for local residents.
To ease the situation, a parking lot and access road were built on a nearby plot of land in 2013. The lot was given the name Parkiran Makam Gus Dur, and it quickly became a popular place of pilgrimage for Gus Dur’s followers.
The Architecture of Parkiran Makam Gus Dur
Parkiran Makam Gus Dur is not just a simple parking lot. It is a beautifully designed and landscaped area that features an open-air pavilion, a mosque, a prayer hall, a souvenir shop, and a food court.
The pavilion is the centerpiece of the site and serves as a resting place for visitors. It is made of wood and has a traditional Javanese roof design. The interior of the pavilion is decorated with photos of Gus Dur, and there is a beautiful mural on one wall that depicts his life and achievements.
The mosque and the prayer hall are located at the rear of the parkiran. The mosque is a modern structure with a capacity of 150 worshippers. The prayer hall is smaller and has a capacity of 50, but it is beautifully designed and is a peaceful and serene place to pray.
The souvenir shop and food court are located near the entrance of the parkiran. They offer a variety of items, including books and DVDs about Gus Dur, t-shirts, hats, and other souvenirs. The food court serves a variety of Indonesian dishes and is a great place to relax and enjoy a meal after paying your respects at the grave.
The Significance of Parkiran Makam Gus Dur
Parkiran Makam Gus Dur is a place of great significance for Indonesians, particularly for those who admire the late president. It is a place of pilgrimage where people come to pay their respects to him and to be inspired by his life and legacy.
Gus Dur was a great leader who was committed to democracy, pluralism, and social justice. He was a strong advocate for human rights and religious freedom, and he was respected both in Indonesia and around the world for his principles and his integrity.
Parkiran Makam Gus Dur is a place where people can reflect on his life and his achievements and be reminded of the values that he stood for. It is also a place where people can come together and celebrate his greatness and his legacy.
FAQs about Parkiran Makam Gus Dur
1. What are the opening hours of Parkiran Makam Gus Dur?
Parkiran Makam Gus Dur is open every day from 7 am to 8 pm.
2. Is there an entry fee to Parkiran Makam Gus Dur?
No, there is no entry fee to Parkiran Makam Gus Dur. However, there may be charges for parking and for some of the services and facilities.
3. Can visitors take pictures at Parkiran Makam Gus Dur?
Yes, visitors are allowed to take pictures at Parkiran Makam Gus Dur. However, please be respectful and follow the guidelines of the site.
4. Is there a dress code for visitors to Parkiran Makam Gus Dur?
No, there is no specific dress code for visitors to Parkiran Makam Gus Dur. However, please dress appropriately and modestly, as this is a place of worship and respect.
5. Can visitors bring food and drinks into the Parkiran Makam Gus Dur?
No, visitors are not allowed to bring food and drinks into the Parkiran Makam Gus Dur. However, there is a food court at the site where visitors can buy refreshments and snacks.
6. Is there public transportation available to Parkiran Makam Gus Dur?
Yes, there are public transportation options available to Parkiran Makam Gus Dur, such as buses and taxis. It is also possible to hire a private car or motorcycle to get there.
In Conclusion
Parkiran Makam Gus Dur is a beautiful and significant place that honours the legacy of one of Indonesia’s greatest leaders. It is a place of pilgrimage, reflection, and inspiration, where people can pay their respects to Gus Dur and learn from his life and his values.
If you are in Jombang, make sure to visit Parkiran Makam Gus Dur and pay your respects to this remarkable leader. You will not only be honouring his memory but also be reminded of the values that he stood for – values of democracy, pluralism, and social justice that are still so important for Indonesia and the world today.