Discover the beauty of Kanoman Palace in Cirebon, West Java, with its deep historical and cultural heritage, as well as unique architecture and historical relics for tourists.
Kanoman Palace, located in Cirebon City, West Java, is not just a tourist spot, but a silent witness to the past glory of the Cirebon Sultanate.
Founded in the 17th century, this palace was once the residence of Sultan Anom and the center of government of the Kanoman Sultanate, a splinter group of the Cirebon Sultanate.
With a blend of classical architecture, high historical value, and ancient heirlooms, Kanoman Palace attracts many tourists who are interested in exploring West Javanese culture.
In this article, we will explore the history, main attractions, and tips for visiting Kanoman Palace in Cirebon.
A Brief History of Kanoman Palace
Kanoman Palace was founded in 1678 by Prince Muhammad Badrudin Kertawijaya as the center of the Kanoman Sultanate after the split of the Cirebon Sultanate.
The palace stands on 6 hectares of land and reflects the traditional Javanese city layout with the main palace building surrounded by a town square, a grand mosque, and a market.
In the palace complex there are several important buildings, such as the Pedaleman Building for the sultan’s residence, Kesatriyan and Keputren for the royal family’s residence, as well as Taman Kebon Raja and Bale Paseban which function as centers for social and religious activities.
Each area has its own unique value and function, depicting the life and traditions of the Kanoman Sultanate in the past.
Uniqueness & Main Attraction of Kanoman Palace
Kanoman Palace is not only rich in history but also has a captivating attraction for visitors. Every corner of the palace has its own uniqueness that reflects the cultural and spiritual values that are maintained until today.
1. Philosophical Entrances
Kanoman Palace has several main entrances, or “lawang,” each of which has its own philosophy and meaning:
- Lawang Syahadat: This door is a symbol of purity and sincerity, and is often used as the main door.
- Lawang Qibla: Facing the direction of the Qibla, this door symbolizes a spiritual connection with God.
- Lawang Siblawong: This door is considered a symbol of safety, often used in traditional ceremonies.
- Lawang Kejaksan: Depicting the place of justice and the settlement of official affairs, this door has an important meaning in the governance of the palace.
Each of these doors leads visitors to a specific area within the palace complex that has a specific function and meaning, reflecting the traditional order and hierarchy within palace culture.
2. Kemuning Studio
Inside the palace there is Sanggar Kemuning, a place where the palace princesses practice traditional dances. This studio has a large yard that allows dance practice to be done freely.
For lucky visitors, they can see the graceful and meaningful practice of Cirebon’s traditional dance, witnessing firsthand the cultural heritage that continues to be preserved.
3. Bale Manguntur and Paseban
Bale Manguntur and Paseban are two important buildings in the structure of the Kanoman Palace:
Bale Manguntur: This place was once used by the Sultan to give speeches to his people. Due to its sacred status, only members of the royal family are allowed to enter this building.
Paseban: A waiting room for people who want to meet the Sultan, signifying the importance of interaction between the Sultan and his people. This place functions as a communication bridge between the leader and the people at that time.
4. Mande Pancaratna and Pancaniti
Kanoman Palace also has mysterious buildings, namely Mande Pancaratna and Pancaniti. Both were guard posts for palace soldiers and had a mysterious aura.
Only certain people are allowed to enter this building, so visitors can only view it from the outside. The existence of these two buildings adds to the attraction for tourists who want to feel the nuances of history and mystery that surround the palace.
5. Tiger Statue and Heritage Building
Inside the Kanoman Palace there is a Tiger Statue and a Heritage Building which houses many historical objects:
Tiger Statue: This statue symbolizes the power and wisdom of Prabu Siliwangi. Many visitors take pictures in front of this statue, making it one of the favorite photo spots.
Heritage Building: This building houses various heirlooms, including the famous Paksi Naga Liman and Jempana carriages. The collection of heirlooms in this building has high historical and cultural value, providing a deeper insight into the past glory of the Kanoman Sultanate.
6. Seven Sacred Wells
One of the attractions that is no less interesting is the Seven Palace Wells located in the Kebon Jimat area. These seven wells are believed to have different properties and are often associated with local beliefs.
For example, the Bride’s Well is believed to have the power to facilitate finding a soul mate. These wells can only be accessed at certain times, adding to the sacred and mystical feel of the palace complex.
Location and Route to Kanoman Palace
Kanoman Palace is located at Jalan Kanoman No. 40, Lemahwungkuk District, Cirebon, West Java. Its strategic location in the city center makes it easily accessible to visitors. You can use private vehicles or public transportation to reach the location of this palace.
Around the palace area there are various public facilities and other tourist attractions, so a visit to Kanoman Palace can be combined with other Cirebon tourist destinations.
Kanoman Palace Entrance Ticket Prices and Operating Hours
Kanoman Palace is open daily from 09.00 to 17.00 WIB. Entry to the main area of the palace is free of charge, but to visit the museum inside the complex, visitors need to pay a ticket of IDR 10,000.
In this museum, tourists can see various collections of historical objects, such as carriages and other heirlooms that display the glory of the Kanoman Sultanate.
Activities You Can Do at Kanoman Palace
At Kanoman Palace, tourists can explore the vast palace area, take photos with historical buildings in the background, and enjoy the beauty of typical West Javanese architecture.
In addition, tourists can visit the Grand Mosque located in the palace area and learn more about traditional mosque architecture. Visitors can also take a historical tour to better understand the cultural and spiritual values upheld by the Kanoman Sultanate.
Tourist Facilities at Kanoman Palace
Kanoman Palace provides adequate facilities for the comfort of tourists, such as a large parking area, toilets, and a mosque. Around the palace there are also stalls selling typical Cirebon souvenirs, so you can buy souvenirs after you finish your tour.
Kanoman Palace Cirebon is one of the historical tourist destinations rich in cultural values, classic architecture, and valuable heirloom collections.
With easy access, affordable ticket prices, and a variety of attractions on offer, this palace is an ideal destination for tourists who want to dive into the traces of the Cirebon kingdom in the past.
Every corner of the palace holds amazing stories and cultural values, making a visit to Kasepuhan Palace a valuable and unforgettable experience for history and culture lovers.