Tirosa Monument

Philosophy of Name and Value-Based Architectural Concept

The name "Tirosa" is an acronym for three major regions on Timor Island: Timor, Rote, and Sabu. Architecturally, this monument is designed to represent ethnic integration and social harmonization. Its design adopts principles of symmetry and verticality, which in the context of local architecture symbolize the relationship between humans, nature, and the Creator.

The main structure of this monument is dominated by sturdy pillars supporting a circular element at its apex. From an urban design perspective, the Tirosa Monument functions as a visual landmark or point of interest that breaks the rigid flow of traffic at the roundabout. The use of reinforced concrete combined with local decorative accents shows an effort of syncretism between modern construction techniques and traditional aesthetics.

Construction Details and Transformation Dynamics

The construction of the Tirosa Monument went through several important phases that reflect the development of Kupang City's identity. Initially, the monument had a simpler design, but along with more modern city planning, the local government carried out extensive renovations, especially in the base area and lighting system.

One of the most striking structural innovations was the addition of a fountain pool around the base of the monument. This fountain is not just an aesthetic enhancement but functions as a microclimate element to lower the temperature around the intersection, which tends to be hot and arid, typical of Timor's climate. At night, the Programmable LED lighting system gives a new dimension to the monument's structure, transforming massive concrete into a dynamic light installation, creating an attractive visual contrast for anyone passing by.

Symbolism of the Statue and Representation of Figures

At the top of the monument stands a statue that becomes the center of attention. This statue depicts a figure carrying traditional атрибуты, often associated with the spirit of heroism and the work ethic of the NTT community. Architecturally, the placement of the statue at the highest point uses the principle of hierarchy, where the most important element is placed at the top to emphasize its visual dominance and ideological value.

The proportions of the statue are made to remain proportional from the perspective of drivers on the highway as well as pedestrians on the sidewalk. The details on the traditional clothing worn by the statue figure show the artisan's meticulousness in capturing the texture of NTT's distinctive ikat woven fabric, realized through carving techniques on hard materials.

Cultural Integration and Social Meaning

Tirosa Monument is a narrative about unity amidst diversity. In traditional Timor architecture, the concept of the round house (Lopo) emphasizes communal space. This monument takes the spirit of this "shared space" and brings it to the city scale. It becomes a meeting point for the three major ethnic groups (Timor, Rote, Sabu) that form Kupang's demographic foundation.

Socially, this monument functions as a third-party public space. Its existence creates a sense of belonging for the city's residents. The spacious roundabout design allows for green open spaces around the monument, which are often used by residents for interaction, especially in the afternoon. This shows that the success of an iconic architecture is not only measured by its physical grandeur but by how well the building can accommodate the social activities of its community.

Visual Innovation and Visitor Experience

For visitors or tourists setting foot in Kupang for the first time, the Tirosa Monument offers an iconic visual experience. A unique element of this monument is its ability to appear different from various viewpoints. From the airport direction, it looks like a welcoming gateway; while from the city center direction, it stands as a grand backdrop for urban activities.

The dancing fountain element added in the latest renovation is a significant modernization step. The use of water sensors and music synchronization at certain hours makes the Tirosa Monument an affordable and inclusive city tourist destination. Technically, the drainage and water circulation system in the monument's pool is designed with a closed-loop system for efficient water use in areas with water resource challenges like Kupang.

Role in Kupang City's Urban Planning

In the context of regional planning, the Tirosa Monument acts as a "Node" or important junction in Kevin Lynch's theory of city image. As a node, it regulates the rhythm of vehicle movement and provides a strong visual identity to the area. Without the presence of this monument, the Tirosa intersection would just be boring asphalt.

The presence of green spaces around the monument also functions as rainwater catchment areas amidst the increasing density of urban buildings. The landscape architecture around the monument is chosen using plants that are resistant to extreme hot weather, such as palm trees and bougainvillea, which are not only biologically resilient but also add a richness of color to the monument's predominantly monochromatic architectural palette.

Conclusion: A Growing Legacy

Tirosa Monument is proof that iconic architecture doesn't always have to be skyscrapers. Through a combination of deep philosophical meaning, design that respects proportion, and adaptation to modern technology, this monument has successfully become the visual heart of Kupang City. It is a living monument, continuously bearing witness to the development of Nusa Tenggara Timur over time. For the people of Kupang, Tirosa is not just concrete and statues; it is pride, identity, and a symbol that within the diversity of the Timor, Rote, and Sabu peoples, there lies an inseparable strength.