Yogyakarta Monument

Genealogy of Form: From Golong-Gilig to Pal Putih

Understanding the architecture of the Yogyakarta Monument requires an understanding of two distinct phases of its form. The first monument was built by Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono I in 1755, shortly after the establishment of the Yogyakarta Sultanate. Its original design was known as Tugu Golong-Gilig. Structurally, this monument had a cylindrical pillar (gilig) and a round or spherical top (golong). Its original height reached 25 meters, much taller than the structure we see today.

Philosophically, the golong-gilig form symbolized Manunggalnya Kawula Gusti, a principle of unity between the people and the ruler, or between humans and the Creator. However, a severe tectonic earthquake on June 10, 1867, caused the structure to collapse. The Dutch colonial government, through resident Dietrich Greeve, then renovated the monument in 1889 with a drastically and significantly changed design. This new design was executed under the supervision of Opzichter Waterstaet, YPF van Brussel, and was officially inaugurated by Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono VII.

Architectural Characteristics and Iconic Ornaments

The structure that stands today, known as Tugu Pal Putih, adopted a more formal and rigid colonial architectural style, with its height reduced to only 15 meters. Although the original cylindrical form was lost, the new design introduced highly detailed decorative elements rich in symbolism.

The monument consists of three main parts: the pedestal, the body of the monument, and the cupola. The pedestal is tiered with a square plan. On each side of the monument's body, there are inscriptions using Javanese script, narrating the reconstruction process of the monument. Its architectural uniqueness lies in the use of ornaments resembling water droplets or crystals at the transition between the body and the cupola.

The cupola transformed into a pointed conical shape (obelisk), completely different from the round shape of the previous era. In some parts, there are carvings shaped like lumbu (taro) leaves and other traditional motifs combined with the sharp lines characteristic of 19th-century European buildings. The dominant white color with touches of gold leaf on specific details gives a sacred and elegant impression, which also explains the name "Pal Putih" (White Pillar).

Imaginary Axis: Architectural Position in Urban Planning

One of the most unique aspects of the Yogyakarta Monument's architecture is not its building itself, but its coordinate location. The Monument is an integral part of the Imaginary Axis of Yogyakarta that stretches straight from north to south: Mount Merapi – Monument – Yogyakarta Kraton – Panggung Krapyak – South Sea.

In terms of landscape architecture, the Monument functions as a viewing point (vista) for the Sultan when meditating in the Bangsal Manguntur Tangkil at the Kraton. If a straight line is drawn, the Monument is located directly north of the Kraton, symbolizing concentration and life's direction. The presence of the Monument ensures that Yogyakarta's urban layout has a strong axis of symmetry, a design principle rarely found in other traditional Javanese cities which are usually more organic.

Structural and Material Innovations

Although it appears to be a solid stone monument, the 1889 reconstruction used more modern construction techniques for its time to ensure earthquake resistance, learning from the failure of the first structure. The main materials consist of high-quality bricks and cement with a smooth plaster coating painted white.

Its ornamental details were not made with rough stone carving, but rather used precision molds that reflect the influence of industrialization in colonial buildings. The fence surrounding the monument—although it has undergone several renovations—is designed to protect the main structure while providing space for the public to appreciate the building's beauty from a safe distance.

Cultural Significance and Visitor Experience

For the people of Yogyakarta, the Monument is more than just concrete and cement. It is identity. Socially, the Monument has been a gathering point for various historical events, from the struggle for independence to modern cultural celebrations. In the context of tourism, the Monument is a major magnet.

The visitor experience today has been enhanced with the arrangement of pedestrian areas around it. Spotlight lighting installed underground creates a dramatic effect at night, highlighting the texture and details of the gold carvings on the monument's body. Despite being in the middle of dense traffic, the Monument still radiates architectural tranquility, contrasting with the hustle and bustle of the surrounding city.

Conclusion: Symbol of Architectural Resilience

The Yogyakarta Monument is a perfect example of how architecture can adapt to the changing times without losing its spiritual essence. The transformation from the organic Golong-Gilig form to the geometric Pal Putih reflects the dialectic between Javanese tradition and external influences. As an icon, it stands firm, reminding everyone who gazes upon it of the importance of harmony between the ruler, the people, nature, and God—a message neatly wrapped in timeless architectural aesthetics.