History of the Bandung Dutch Cave. It preserves the history of the Dutch Colonial period and is a popular tourist attraction to this day.
There are lots of tourist attractions in Bandung, whether culinary, natural or historical. Bandung Dutch Cave is a tourist destination famous for its history and myths.
Tourism that combines history and myth has its own charm. There are those who come because they are interested, there are also those who want to understand more about history.
We will thoroughly examine the history of the Bandung Dutch Cave in this post, starting from the history, tourist attractions and myths.
What is the history of the Bandung Dutch Cave?
The Dutch built various infrastructure in various places, including the city of Bandung, during the colonial period. One of them is making artificial caves.
The Dutch Cave was built in 1923 as a Storage and Protection Facility in the event of an Air Raid or Military Attack.
Dutch civilians and soldiers sought refuge in this cave. Because of its strategic location in the Dago Mountains, it is safe from attack.
Heavy labor and engineering skills are needed for the construction of the Bandung Dutch Cave. To create the cave, blasting and stone carving techniques were used.
The cave walls are then covered with concrete to ensure strength and safety. The Bandung Dutch Cave remained after Indonesian Independence in 1945 and stands to this day.
However, its function as a place to store weapons and take shelter has ended. This cave was finally given to the Bandung City Government and made into a public tourist attraction.
Bandung's Dutch Cave has become one of the city's most prominent tourist attractions of all time. You can enter the cave and explore the passages.
There are various exhibition rooms, where you can learn more about the history of Bandung's Dutch Caves and the Dutch Colonial period.
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The Attraction of the Dutch Caves
The following are some of the attractions of Bandung's Dutch Cave.
1. Architecture and History
The Dutch Cave has an important history because it is a relic of the Dutch Colonization period in Indonesia.
You can see for yourself the cave structure, which was created using advanced building techniques of its time.
This cave architecture shows the technical expertise and strength required in the construction process. If you want to learn about the history of the Bandung Dutch Cave, you can visit directly.
2. Beautiful natural views
The Dutch Cave is located in the Dago Mountains area which offers amazing natural views and clean air.
You can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature, including forests and views of Bandung City from a height.
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3. As a hydroelectric power plant
In the past, the Dutch Cave functioned as a hydroelectric power plant (PLTA) tunnel.
More specifically, the Dutch built the first hydroelectric power plant in Indonesia, known as PLTA Bengkok in 1918.
This 144 meter long cave has approximately 15 corridors and many rooms, including a resting place for Dutch soldiers, an interrogation room and a detention room.
4. Experience colonialism in the past
Dutch Cave offers an interesting tourist experience. As a visitor, you are welcome to enter the cave and explore the passageways inside.
It provides an In-Depth Picture of Colonial Life and the importance of the Caves as places of refuge and weapons storage Facilities.
5. Exhibitions and historical information
Inside the cave there is an exhibition room which contains information and artifacts about the history of the Bandung Dutch Cave and the Dutch Colonial period.
You can learn more about the historical significance of the cave by studying its historical setting.
6. Old doors
Even though the Dutch Cave looks damp, there are several sturdy doors that are immediately visible when you want to enter the cave.
The antique doors in the Dutch Cave are silent witnesses of the Dutch Colonization period in Indonesia, showing their beauty and uniqueness.
These doors allow entry into the chambers inside the cave, with distinctive designs and complex decorations that reflect Dutch art and architectural style.
The existence of this door honors Indonesian history and culture with hidden stories, and provides an opportunity to learn from the past.
7. Dutch East Indies Radio Center
The Dutch Cave, apart from being a hydroelectric generating facility, also played an important role as a radio center for the Dutch East Indies.
Because the open position of Mount Malabar could not be protected from air attacks, the Dutch chose this cave as a communications center.
Even though conditions at that time were not ideal, this radio station functioned as a liaison between the Dutch War Commander and the Allied Commander, Karel Doorman.
At that time, the Dutch Commander, Lieutenant General Ter Poorten, tried to block the entry of the Japanese Navy.
However, this collaboration failed, and Japanese troops led by Lieutenant Hitoshi Imamura managed to land.
This historical story cannot be found in the cave, but can be studied through the Historical Review of the Bandung Dutch Caves.
Myths About the Dutch Caves in Bandung
One of the myths related to the Dutch Cave in Bandung is the myth that says "pepper" in the cave.
According to this story, a mystical or supernatural event will occur if someone says the word "lada" (lada is Indonesian for pepper) in the cave.
Some people believe that repeating the word “pepper” in a cave can summon otherworldly creatures or spirits.
Some visitors claim to have heard strange sounds, invisible touches, or scary apparitions after repeating these words in the cave.
However, it is important to underline that this myth is just a popular belief or story from society. This claim is not supported by scientific evidence.
These experiences can be related to suggestions or psychological impacts caused by the dark and mysterious atmosphere of the cave. This myth adds intrigue and curiosity to some visitors to the Dutch Cave.
However, when visiting tourist attractions, it is very important to follow the rules and etiquette. Don't forget to always maintain cleanliness, don't make noise, and follow the applicable regulations.
Interesting Activities at Bandung Dutch Cave
At Bandung Dutch Cave, you can take part in various exciting activities. Here are some examples:
1. Cave Exploration
The main activity available at Dutch Caves is cave exploration. You can explore the cave halls and admire the beauty and originality of the rock formations and rooms.
While walking, you can see natural rock cave architecture that creates an amazing adventure experience.
2. Enjoy the natural surroundings
Apart from visiting the cave, you can enjoy the surrounding environment. You can enjoy fresh air and beautiful natural views when staying in the shady Ciumbuleuit area.
Around the cave there are areas that can be used for resting, picnicking, or just relaxing in a peaceful and natural atmosphere.
3. Follow the Tour Guide
You can take a guided tour led by a local guide to find out more about the history and interesting things about the Dutch Cave.
The guide will share interesting facts about the cave, history, and interrelated stories and myths. This will help you understand the context and meaning of the History of the Bandung Dutch Caves.
4. Photography
Dutch Cave has interesting and unique terrain, making it a popular photo location among visitors.
Inside the cave, you can take pictures in low light conditions. The beauty of the cave and mysterious atmosphere make it an interesting place to take photos.
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5. Buy souvenirs
Around the Dutch Cave there are shops and kiosks selling various souvenirs, souvenirs and special foods.
You can use this opportunity to buy souvenirs or mementos when visiting the Dutch Cave.
That is the history of the Bandung Dutch Cave as well as its attraction. This cave makes people increasingly respect Indonesian history and culture.
