History of Jakarta on the island of Onrust

History of Jakarta, not only can be learned from the mainland, but also the Thousand Islands. One of them is to visit the island of Onrust, which is the center of the hustle and bustle of that past. The remains of glory can be enjoyed with boating fifteen minutes from the coast of Jakarta.

Onrust Island

Named after the Dutch word which means without a break, Onrust Island plays an important role in the history of Batavia. In the 16th century, this island is the resting place of the kings of Banten. After the Dutch came, the island is used as an asset in order to strengthen their occupation.

The function of the island is constantly changing according to political conditions in Jakarta - which also constantly changing. Noted, the island was once a wharf, fort, powder magazine, to sawmills and workshops for the damaged vessels.

Pulau Onrust island is not really friendly to the explorers. Hot tropical weather and the condition of heavily wooded island is one of the reasons. Not surprisingly, there is a myth that the inhabitants of this island will die young.

A medical book written by Thomas and George Underwood in 1827 to explain about the British royal army expedition to Batavia in August 1800. Mentioned, there are 12 regiments soldiers (127 personnel) who landed on the island of Onrust in good health. Because of the mysterious disease, only 62 were returned. The rest had died without a fight.

Myths die young is also strengthened by the ruins of the Dutch cemetery at the end of the island. Some headstones are still intact show, the residents died before the age of 30 years. On the tombstone of Johanna Kalf, wife of the ruler, even writing that he died at the age of 25 years.

Since the 16th century, the island was built, destroyed, rebuilt, then destroyed uninhabited. At the time of independence, the island was used as a quarantine infectious disease. Since the 1970s, the island was neglected. The building was demolished and the remaining debris.

Now there's only remaining foundations of the ancient citadel, as well as pilgrims from the late boarding the Dutch occupation.

Tombs, ruins and shadows of the trees that grow fast to make this island appeared dark atmosphere. History is full of twists that ultimately stored in the silence of the ruins and trees.

Kuiper aka Cipir Island

When you visit the island of Onrust, do not forget to stop by the Island Cipir located next door. Both the island was connected with a floating bridge - the ruins can still be seen in Cipir while at Onrust have disappeared altogether.

Most of the island contains the ruins of the dormitory Cipir pilgrimage. Although only a wall and floor, the ruins still better than the island of Onrust.

Cipir island is very small and can be surrounded in just a few minutes.

(http://id.travel.yahoo.com/jalan-jalan/112-sejarah-jakarta-di-pulau-onrust)