Mesjid Agung

Central Java


Demak’s venerable Mesjid Agung (circa 1466), notable for its triple-tiered roof, is Java's oldest mosque and one of the archipelago’s foremost Muslim pilgrimage sites. Legend has it that it was built from wood by the wali songo (nine holy men) in a single night. Four main pillars in the central hall were originally made by four of the Muslim saints, and one pillar, erected by Sunan Kalijaga, is said to be made from scraps of timber magically fused together.

Today the history of the mosque is outlined in a small museum (rarely open) that exhibits some of the original woodwork, including magnificent carved doors.

The tombs of Demak’s rulers lie next to the mosque; the tomb of Raden Trenggono (leader of Demak’s greatest military campaigns) attracts the most pilgrims, a steady stream of whom file through the mosque compound day and night.

Mesjid Agung lies on the main road in the centre of town, beside the huge grassy alun-alun.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Central Java attractions

1. Jamu Nyonya Meneer

13.56 MILES

This factory, near the bus terminal, is one of two outlets in Semarang that produces jamu, a herbal medicine that has been highly sought-after for…

2. Kretek Museum

14.39 MILES

This lonely, shabby old compound has some exhibits on the history of kretek (clove cigarette) production, including some old photographs and machinery…

3. Mesjid Al-Manar

14.65 MILES

This beautiful old mosque, built in 1549 by Sunan Kudus, is famous for its red-brick menara (minaret). This minaret may have originally been the…

4. Sunan Kudus Tomb

14.65 MILES

From the courtyards behind the mesjid (mosque), a palm-lined path leads to the imposing tomb of the Muslim saint Sunan Kudus, shrouded behind a curtain of…

5. Semarang Gallery

15.31 MILES

In the middle of the old quarter, this wonderful art gallery occupies an old Dutch warehouse and is dedicated to Indonesian contemporary art. Some of the…

6. Semarang Harbour

15.38 MILES

Semarang harbour is worth a look to see the pinisi (schooners) and other traditional oceangoing vessels that dock at Tambak Lorok.

7. Gereja Blenduk

15.4 MILES

Built in 1753, this elegant church is graced with a huge cupola and marks the centre of the old colonial quarter of Semarang. The interior sports a…

8. Old City

15.42 MILES

Semarang’s atmospheric old quarter, often referred to by its Dutch name, the Outstadt, is well worth investigating. Until recently, most of the area’s…