Museum Negeri Banten relocates to Banten Lama, strengthening cultural identity through history

Since September 2023, the museum has operated at a new location on the first floor of the Islamic Center building within the Masjid Agung Banten compound, directly facing the ruins of Keraton Surosowan. The move has made the museum more integrated with the historical sites of the Banten Sultanate, allowing visitors to study the region’s past in a more connected way.

Museum Negeri Banten was inaugurated on Oct. 29, 2015, with a primary mission to strengthen the cultural identity of local communities. Its presence in a heritage zone lends a strong educational atmosphere for students and travelers arriving from various parts of Indonesia.

A brief look at Museum Negeri Banten
Before moving to the Banten Islamic Center, Museum Negeri Banten was housed in Gedung Negara, a former governor’s pavilion in central Serang.

The old building was established on Jan. 26, 1821, and once served as the Banten Resident’s Office during the Dutch colonial period. The choice of the original site reflected the fact that the building is a protected cultural heritage property, featuring a spacious yard and shady trees.

As part of efforts to develop Banten Lama as a tourism destination, authorities later decided to relocate the museum closer to the center of the former Banten Sultanate. The move was intended to ensure the museum’s collections could visually and historically resonate with the nearby remains of the palace complex and the grand mosque. The new venue at the Banten Islamic Center offers a more modern exhibition space while still blending with the area’s strong religious character.

The relocation also aims to increase visitor numbers, given the museum’s position along the same route taken by pilgrims visiting the tombs of Banten’s sultans. Facilities at the new site have been adjusted to contemporary educational needs, including the use of interactive technology.

Collections range from ancient fossils to hologram technology
The museum’s collections are diverse and arranged in the front hall, making it easier for visitors to explore at their own pace.

One of the most striking pieces is a carefully preserved fossil of a one-horned rhinoceros displayed in a glass case. Visitors can also find a replica of a Ganesha statue from Panaitan Island, as well as various heirloom keris and the Ciomas golok—traditional weapons closely associated with Banten.

The museum has introduced digital features, including hologram-based presentations that deliver historical information in audio-visual form. Through this system, visitors can listen to narratives tracing Banten’s journey from the prehistoric era to Indonesia’s independence, presented in a more engaging format. The museum also displays a set of diving equipment for visitors interested in learning about maritime exploration in Banten’s surrounding waters.

Numismatic items—such as historical forms of exchange and old currency from the colonial period—are also part of the permanent displays. Each showcase includes a brief description of an artifact’s origin, enabling visitors to learn independently without always relying on a guide.

Visiting procedures and ticket information
For visitors, the good news is that there is no admission fee—the museum is free of charge.

Guests are only asked to fill out a registration book at the front desk, which helps management track visitor statistics. The museum is open to the public from Monday to Friday, $08.00$ to $15.00$ WIB, while Saturday and Sunday openings typically follow special arrangements or specific coordination.

Schools, community groups, and researchers planning large visits are advised to send prior notification.

Information on group visits can be coordinated online via the museum’s official administrative contact. The aim is to ensure visitor comfort and prevent overcrowding during peak hours.

A strategic location in the heart of Banten Lama religious tourism
Located in Kasemen district, Museum Negeri Banten sits in a strategic spot for pilgrims who have just visited the sultans’ tomb complex.

Its close proximity to Masjid Agung Banten allows visitors to reach the museum on foot. The area is a historical axis connecting Banten’s past prominence in international trade with the realities of modern community life.

The site can be accessed by motorcycles, cars, and large tour buses via routes from Serang City toward the northern area. Being situated inside the Islamic Center compound offers shade and comfort for visitors who want to rest while adding historical insight to their trip. Supporting facilities, including spacious parking areas, are available around the Banten Lama complex.

A call to learn Banten’s heritage at Museum Negeri Banten
Seeing ancient ceramics up close and listening to historical narratives delivered through hologram technology offers a different kind of learning experience. Museum Negeri Banten stands out as a fitting place to explore Banten’s identity amid rapid social and technological change.

Indonesianpost.com | GNFI