National Monument (Indonesia)

The National Monument (Monas) is a 132-meter obelisk in Merdeka Square, Central Jakarta, built to commemorate Indonesia's struggle for independence. It features a gold-leaf-covered flame at its top, symbolizing the people's burning spirit.

Don't miss

• The 14.5-ton bronze Flame of Independence at the top, covered with 50 kg of gold leaf.
• The National History Museum in the base, with 51 dioramas depicting Indonesian history from prehistoric times to the New Order era.
• The Hall of Independence inside the goblet part, containing the original Proclamation text and a 4-ton bronze door coated with gold leaf.
• Reliefs around the outer yard showing events from the Singhasari and Majapahit empires through colonial times to independence.
• The observation deck at 115 meters high, offering views of Jakarta.
• The northern pond and a statue of Prince Diponegoro by Italian sculptor Cobertaldo.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit National Monument (Indonesia)

Cheapest way inJakarta Half Day Visit The Monument with Highlight City Tour4.9★ · 17 travelers5-6 hoursFree cancellationFrom$45 per personSee dates →Best full dayActive Volcano, Rice Field, Hot Spring, Fruit market, Tea Plantation with Lunch4.8★ · 546 travelers12-13 hoursFree cancellationFrom$110 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleJakarta Walking Tour with Public Transportation Visiting Sites4.9★ · 18 travelers4-5 hoursFree cancellationFrom$45 per personSee dates →

Know before you go

• The bronze Flame of Independence weighs 14.5 tons and is covered with 50 kilograms of gold leaf.
• The monument’s dimensions incorporate 17, 8 and 45, referring to the 17 August 1945 Proclamation of Independence.
• Reliefs around the outer yard trace Indonesian history from precolonial kingdoms through occupation and independence.

A bit of history

President Sukarno began construction in 1961 after a design competition failed to meet his vision. Architect R.M. Soedarsono incorporated the numbers 17, 8, and 45 into the dimensions to represent the 17 August 1945 Proclamation of Independence. The monument opened to the public in 1975.