Gebang Palace

Historical Context and Development Philosophy

Built on approximately 1.8 hectares of land, Gebang Palace was initially owned by a Dutch railway employee named CH. Portier. However, in 1917, the building was purchased by Raden Soekeni Sosrodihardjo, Bung Karno's father, when he was transferred to Blitar. The name "Gebang" itself refers to the name of the sub-district where the building is located.

Philosophically, Gebang Palace reflects the social status of a new priyayi family in the colonial era who were educated yet still held firm to traditional Javanese values. The transition of ownership from Dutch hands to an educated indigenous family brought a shift in the function of the space, from merely a residence to a space for intellectual discussions that shaped the character of young Soekarno's nationalism.

Indische Empire Style Architecture and Tropical Adaptation

The architectural style of Gebang Palace is deeply influenced by the Indische Empire Style, a style that developed in the Dutch East Indies during the 18th and 19th centuries. This style is characterized by the use of grand, large columns, strict symmetry, and very high ceilings.

The building's facade is dominated by round columns supporting the front eaves (veranda). The use of these columns conveys a sense of authority and grandeur. However, what makes Gebang Palace unique is its success in tropical adaptation. The building's walls are made very thick (around 30-40 cm) using red brick construction without steel reinforcement, which functions as a natural heat insulator.

The massive windows with wooden jalusi (louvers) systems allow for maximum cross-ventilation. This ensures that the temperature inside the rooms remains cool even though Blitar has a humid tropical climate. The building's floors use classic patterned tiles that provide a cool sensation underfoot, adding to the thermal comfort within the building.

Spatial Structure and Functional Innovation

Structurally, Gebang Palace is divided into several main zones: the main building, side pavilions, and supporting buildings at the rear. The main building consists of a very spacious living room, a family room, and bedrooms.

One unique feature is the presence of Bung Karno's bedroom, which has been preserved as it was originally. Here, we can see how Art Deco and Victorian style furniture blend harmoniously. The ceilings are made of high-quality teak wood with geometric patterns that function as sound dampeners as well as decorative elements.

Functional innovation is evident in the building's layout, which follows a linear pattern but has many openings on the sides. This allows each room to receive sufficient natural light from morning to afternoon, reducing reliance on artificial lighting.

Aesthetic Details and Unique Ornaments

The architectural details at Gebang Palace are most prominent in the transitional elements between outdoor and indoor spaces. The main door, made of solid teak wood, is exceptionally large, reflecting the openness and authority of its inhabitants. Simple floral patterned stained glass adorns some of the upper windows, providing color accents when sunlight penetrates.

In the back area, there is an old well and a kitchen area that still retains its original structure. The presence of this well is not just a water source but a central point of domestic life, arranged with a highly efficient layout. The extensive green open spaces surrounding the building not only function as gardens but also as water catchment areas and lungs for the main building complex.

Cultural and Social Significance

Gebang Palace is not just about bricks and mortar. Socially, this building is a symbol of resistance against colonialism through the mastery of space. It was here that Bung Karno spent his youth, contemplating under trees, and discussing with movement figures. Every corner of the room holds a narrative about the formation of political thought.

This building also serves as a cultural anchor for the people of Blitar. The annual "Haul Bung Karno" commemoration makes Gebang Palace the center of socio-cultural activities that connect the past with the present. The building's preserved original structure provides visual lessons for younger generations on how past architecture can endure through the ages.

Visitor Experience and Current Conservation

Currently, Gebang Palace is very well managed as a museum and cultural heritage site. Visitors are welcomed by a calm and beautiful atmosphere. Entering the interior, the aroma of old wood and the cleanliness of the tiles provide a deep sensory experience.

The Blitar City Government, along with historical building preservation experts, regularly conducts maintenance without altering the original form of the building. The biggest challenges in conserving this architecture are maintaining wall humidity and the integrity of the teak wood from termite attacks. However, thanks to traditional maintenance techniques combined with modern management, Gebang Palace continues to stand majestically.

One of the main attractions for visitors is the collection of Bung Karno's old Mercedes-Benz sedan cars parked in the side garage. This garage itself is an important architectural element, showing how early automotive technology was integrated into residential design at that time.

Conclusion: An Eternal Legacy in the Heart of Blitar

Gebang Palace is an architectural masterpiece that successfully blends the grandeur of colonial style with local wisdom. This building proves that good architecture is architecture that can adapt to its environment while preserving the spirit of history in every wall. As an icon of Blitar, Gebang Palace continues to stand as a reminder of the nation's great history and the timeless elegance of past designs. Exploring every corner is a journey through space and time, where every pillar and window tells the story of a nation's grand dream born from a humble home in East Java.