Visiting Dahor Heritage Balikpapan: Hours, Tickets, and Tips
Published Date: 01/08/2024
Introduction to Dahor Heritage Balikpapan
Dahor Heritage Balikpapan, located in Balikpapan, Indonesia, stands as a testament to the city’s rich historical and cultural legacy. Situated on Jalan Dahor No.1, Baru Ilir, Balikpapan Barat, this heritage site features a collection of Dutch colonial houses dating back to the 1920s. These houses were originally constructed by the Bataafsche Petroleum Maatschappij (BPM), a Dutch oil company, to accommodate its employees during a period of significant oil exploration and exploitation (Liputan6). Dahor Heritage Balikpapan offers visitors an immersive journey through Balikpapan’s colonial past, highlighted by its architectural marvels, historical museums, and cultural performances.
The site’s historical significance is further underscored by its role during World War II. The area witnessed fierce battles between Dutch and Japanese forces due to its strategic importance for oil resources. This tumultuous period left an indelible mark on Balikpapan’s history and development (Liputan6). Today, Dahor Heritage Balikpapan is preserved and managed by Pertamina, the state-owned oil and gas company, in collaboration with the Dahor Heritage Community, ensuring that this cultural landmark remains a valuable asset for both local and international visitors (IDN Times).
Table of Contents
- Historical Background
- Significance During World War II
- Preservation and Restoration
- Visiting Hours and Ticket Prices
- Accessibility and Visitor Information
- Cultural and Educational Value
- Special Events and Guided Tours
- Photographic Spots
- Community Involvement
- Architectural Features
- Visitor Experience
- Future Prospects
- FAQ
Historical Background
Dahor Heritage Balikpapan, located in Balikpapan, Indonesia, is a significant cultural and historical site that offers a glimpse into the city’s past, particularly during the Dutch colonial era. The heritage site is situated on Jalan Dahor No.1, Baru Ilir, Balikpapan Barat, and comprises a collection of Dutch colonial houses that were originally built as residences for oil refinery workers (Liputan6).
The houses were constructed in the 1920s by the Bataafsche Petroleum Maatschappij (BPM), a Dutch oil company, to accommodate its employees. This period marked the beginning of significant oil exploration and exploitation activities in Balikpapan, which played a crucial role in the city’s development (IDN Times).
Significance During World War II
Dahor Heritage Balikpapan holds immense historical value as it was a silent witness to the tumultuous events of World War II. The area was a strategic location due to its oil resources, leading to fierce battles between the Dutch and Japanese forces. The Japanese occupation of Balikpapan during the war left a lasting impact on the city’s history and development (Liputan6).
Preservation and Restoration
In 1997, Dahor Heritage Balikpapan was officially designated as a cultural heritage site to preserve its historical significance. Initially, the site comprised 27 houses, but due to urban development and the expansion of Pertamina’s oil refinery, only nine houses remain today. These remaining houses have been meticulously restored and repurposed as museums, mini libraries, and reading gardens to educate visitors about Balikpapan’s rich history (Liputan6).
Visiting Hours and Ticket Prices
Dahor Heritage Balikpapan is open to visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9 AM to 5 PM. The heritage site is closed on Mondays and public holidays. The ticket prices are quite affordable, with general admission costing IDR 10,000 for adults and IDR 5,000 for children. Special discounts are available for group visits and educational tours.
Accessibility and Visitor Information
The site is accessible to visitors of all ages and abilities. There are ramps and pathways that accommodate wheelchairs, and guided tours are available upon request. Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the tour involves walking through different houses and outdoor areas.
Cultural and Educational Value
The Dahor Heritage site serves as an educational destination, offering visitors a chance to learn about the city’s colonial past and the evolution of its oil industry. The museums within the heritage site display a collection of historical photographs, artifacts, and documents that provide insights into the lives of the oil refinery workers and the development of the oil industry in Balikpapan. Some of the photographs are sourced from the governments of Australia and the Netherlands, while Japan has not shared its documentation (TourHQ).
Special Events and Guided Tours
Dahor Heritage Balikpapan offers special events and guided tours for visitors interested in a deeper exploration of the site’s history. These events include historical reenactments, cultural performances, and educational workshops. Guided tours are conducted by knowledgeable volunteers from the Dahor Heritage Community, providing an enriching experience for visitors.
Photographic Spots
The site offers numerous photographic spots that capture the essence of Dutch colonial architecture and the serene environment of the heritage site. Visitors are encouraged to take photographs and share their experiences on social media, using the hashtag #DahorHeritageBalikpapan.
Community Involvement
The preservation and management of Dahor Heritage Balikpapan are overseen by Pertamina, the state-owned oil and gas company, in collaboration with the Dahor Heritage Community. This community of volunteers plays a vital role in maintaining the site and organizing events to promote its historical and cultural significance. Their efforts have made Dahor Heritage a popular destination for both local and international tourists (IDN Times).
Architectural Features
The houses at Dahor Heritage Balikpapan are notable for their traditional Dutch colonial architecture. These wooden stilt houses, known as “rumah panggung,” have been preserved in their original form, providing a unique architectural experience for visitors. The houses are built on a 1,206 square meter plot, with each house covering approximately 226 square meters (IDN Times).
Visitor Experience
Visitors to Dahor Heritage Balikpapan can explore the various houses that have been converted into museums and libraries. These spaces offer a wealth of information about Balikpapan’s history, including the early days of oil exploration and the impact of World War II on the city. The site also features a mini reading garden, providing a serene environment for visitors to relax and reflect on the historical significance of the area (Liputan6).
Future Prospects
The ongoing efforts to preserve and promote Dahor Heritage Balikpapan highlight the importance of cultural heritage in understanding and appreciating the city’s history. As a cultural and educational destination, Dahor Heritage continues to attract visitors and researchers interested in Balikpapan’s colonial past and its role in the global oil industry. The collaboration between Pertamina and the Dahor Heritage Community ensures that this historical site remains a valuable asset for future generations (Liputan6).
FAQ
What are the visiting hours for Dahor Heritage Balikpapan? Visiting hours are from Tuesday to Sunday, 9 AM to 5 PM. The site is closed on Mondays and public holidays.
What are the ticket prices for Dahor Heritage Balikpapan? General admission costs IDR 10,000 for adults and IDR 5,000 for children. Special discounts are available for group visits and educational tours.
Are guided tours available? Yes, guided tours are available upon request and are conducted by knowledgeable volunteers.
Is Dahor Heritage Balikpapan accessible for visitors with disabilities? Yes, the site is accessible with ramps and pathways that accommodate wheelchairs.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Dahor Heritage Balikpapan stands as a testament to the city’s rich history and its pivotal role in the oil industry. The preservation of this heritage site not only honors the past but also serves as an educational resource for visitors. Through the combined efforts of Pertamina and the Dahor Heritage Community, this cultural landmark continues to thrive, offering a unique glimpse into Balikpapan’s colonial era and its journey through the 20th century.
Plan your visit to Dahor Heritage Balikpapan and explore its rich history. Don’t forget to check out our other posts on related historical sites and follow us on social media for more updates!
References
- Liputan6, 2023, Liputan6 source
- IDN Times, 2023, Fatmawati source
- TourHQ, 2023, TourHQ source
- Mangrove Center Graha Indah, 2023, TripAdvisor source
- Kemala Beach, 2023, TripAdvisor source
- Bekapai Park, 2023, TripAdvisor source
- Ocean’s Resto, 2023, TripAdvisor source
- Dandito, 2023, TripAdvisor source
- Bondy Bakery & Restaurant, 2023, TripAdvisor source
