SURABAYA, INDONESIA: ISLAMIC HISTORY, ARCHITECTURE, AND CULTURE
Surabaya is the second-largest city in Indonesia and is located on the eastern coast of Java Island. Islam arrived in Surabaya in the 15th century and has played a significant role in shaping the city’s history, architecture, and culture. In this essay, we will explore Surabaya’s Islamic history, architecture, and culture.
ISLAMIC HISTORY
Islam arrived in Surabaya through Arab and Indian traders who brought the religion with them during their travels to the region. However, it was not until the 15th century that Islam began to take root in Surabaya. The spread of Islam was facilitated by Muslim traders and scholars who traveled to Surabaya and established relationships with local communities.
One of the most important figures in Surabaya’s Islamic history is Sunan Ampel, one of the nine Islamic saints who spread Islam throughout Java. Sunan Ampel was responsible for the establishment of Islamic schools and places of worship, which laid the foundation for the development of Islamic communities in Surabaya.
ARCHITECTURE
Islamic architecture in Surabaya is a blend of local and Islamic styles. The city’s most iconic Islamic building is the Ampel Mosque, which is located in the heart of the city. The mosque was built in the 15th century and is one of the oldest mosques in Indonesia. The mosque’s architecture reflects a blend of Islamic and Javanese styles, and its interior is adorned with Islamic calligraphy.
Another notable Islamic building in Surabaya is the Arab Quarter, which is located in the city’s historic district. The Arab Quarter features traditional Islamic architecture, including wooden houses and a mosque with a unique pyramid-shaped roof.
CULTURE
Islam is an integral part of Surabaya’s culture and is evident in the city’s daily life. Muslims in Surabaya start their day by performing morning prayers at the mosque, and the call to prayer can be heard throughout the city five times a day. Surabaya’s food culture is also heavily influenced by Islam, and traditional dishes such as sate kambing and soto are often prepared in halal ways.
The Muslim community in Surabaya is also actively involved in charity work and social welfare. Many Islamic organizations in the city run schools, hospitals, and orphanages, and provide assistance to those in need.
In addition to their religious activities, the Muslim community in Surabaya also engages in cultural activities. The Surabaya Islamic Festival showcases Islamic art, music, and culture, and the Surabaya Islamic Book Fair features books and publications that explore Islamic themes and issues.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, Surabaya, Indonesia, has a rich Islamic history, architecture, and culture. Islam arrived in the region in the 15th century and has played a significant role in shaping Surabaya’s development. Islamic architecture in Surabaya is a blend of local and Islamic styles, and the Ampel Mosque is the city’s most iconic Islamic building. Islam is an integral part of Surabaya’s culture, and the Muslim community is actively involved in charity work and social welfare. Surabaya’s Islamic influence is an essential part of the city’s heritage and identity.
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