Lamongan

History

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History and Development of Lamongan Regency: Traces of Civilization in the Heart of East Java

Lamongan Regency is a strategic area in East Java with a total area of 1758.87 km². Geographically, this region is located in a central position connecting the main northern coast route of Java, although its administrative center is not directly on the coast. Bordering six administrative regions—Gresik, Mojokerto, Jombang, Bojonegoro, Tuban, and the Java Sea to the north—Lamongan holds a long historical narrative, from the Hindu-Buddhist kingdom era to independence.

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Origins and Kingdom Era

The name "Lamongan" is rooted in a legendary figure named Hadi, a young santri (Islamic student) of Sunan Giri. Due to his "Among" (lovingly nurturing) nature and good leadership, he was nicknamed "Rangga Hadi" or "Mbah Lamong". The establishment of Lamongan's anniversary falls on May 26, 1569, coinciding with Hadi's graduation as the first Adipati (Duke) of Lamongan by Sunan Giri IV at the Giri Kedaton Palace. This era marked a significant transition from Majapahit's influence towards the rapid spread of Islam in coastal and inland areas.

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Colonial Era and Resistance

During the Dutch colonial period, Lamongan became an important region due to its position in the trade route. Under the rule of the VOC and later the Dutch East Indies government, this area was organized into an Afdeeling system. One unique historical fact is the construction of the Van der Wijck Monument in Brondong. This monument was erected to honor the services of local fishermen and the government in rescuing passengers of the Dutch luxury ship, SS Van der Wijck, which sank in the waters north of Lamongan in 1936—an event that later inspired Hamka's legendary novel.

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Independence Era and Local Struggle

During the physical revolution (1945-1949), the people of Lamongan took up arms against the Dutch military aggression. Figures like Cadet Soewoko became heroic symbols of local struggle. He fell in a fierce battle against Dutch soldiers in the Ibnu Sina area to defend the sovereignty of his territory. This spirit of patriotism continues to be passed down through the construction of various struggle monuments in the city center.

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Culture and Historical Heritage

Lamongan possesses a specific cultural richness, such as the Tari Boran art form, which depicts the lives of nasi boran sellers—a distinctive culinary dish found only here. In terms of religion, this region is home to the Tomb of Sunan Drajat (Raden Qasim) in Paciran, who is one of the Wali Songo (Nine Saints). The philosophy of "Catur Piwulang" taught by Sunan Drajat remains a moral foundation for the local community to this day.

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Modern Development

Today, Lamongan has transformed into a region that integrates the agricultural sector and marine tourism. The development of Wisata Bahari Lamongan (WBL) in the former ancient port of Tanjung Kodok is evidence of adapting past history into modern economic strength. With infrastructure growth connecting to its six neighboring regions, Lamongan continues to maintain its identity as a religious "Soto City" yet remains open to the progress of the times, making it an important pillar in the historical and economic constellation of East Java.