Surabaya: A City of Heroes and Modern Marvels
Surabaya, the capital of East Java, Indonesia, stands as the nation’s second-largest city after Jakarta. With a metropolitan population of three million, it’s a vibrant hub for business, commerce, industry, and education in the eastern part of the country. Known as the “City of Heroes,” Surabaya holds a revered place in history for its pivotal role in the struggle for Indonesian independence. The city’s name is famously derived from a mythical battle between Sura (a shark) and Baya (a crocodile), a story that has become an integral part of its identity.
This unique blend of a bustling metropolis and rich historical values makes Surabaya an endlessly fascinating tourist destination. Our journey through the city will focus on its most representative monumental sites, allowing you to connect with both its heroic past and its modern-day spirit.
Iconic Landmarks of Surabaya
Our exploration of Surabaya’s history and modernity includes several key landmarks that tell the city’s story.
Sura and Baya Monument
This iconic statue visualizes the mythical battle between the two powerful aquatic animals that gave the city its name. Located at the main entrance to Surabaya, the monument is a popular photo spot and stands directly across from the Surabaya Zoo (KBS).
Heroes Monument (Tugu Pahlawan)
The Heroes Monument is a powerful symbol of Surabaya’s role as a city of heroes. It was built to commemorate the historic events of November 10, 1945, when the people of Surabaya and the surrounding cities valiantly fought against Dutch military aggression. This monument serves as a tribute to the countless lives lost in a battle that was ultimately won, securing a significant victory for Indonesian independence.
The Sharp Bamboo Monument (Tugu Bambu Runcing)
The “Bambu Runcing” (sharp bamboo) was a traditional weapon used by freedom fighters in their struggle against colonialism. The monument was erected to symbolically honor the importance and widespread use of this weapon in the past. It visually represents Surabaya as a city steeped in heroic history and the patriotic values of the Indonesian nation.
Suramadu Bridge
As its name—a portmanteau of Surabaya and Madura—suggests, this bridge connects the islands of Java and Madura across the Madura Strait. Its construction symbolizes Surabaya’s metropolitan ambition and its drive for development, hand in hand with its surrounding cities. At night, the 5,438-meter-long Suramadu Bridge offers an exotic panorama as its body is beautifully illuminated by thousands of ligts
Fishing (22 Trips)
Hiking (28 Trips)
Jungle Safari (21 Trips)
Rafting (9 Trips)
