Located in Semarang, Kalibanteng war cemetery is the largest Netherlands war cemetery in Indonesia in terms of land area. It is situated along the remains of the historic Great Post Road and surrounded by canals and towering banyan trees, providing a peaceful setting for remembrance.
Often referred to as the war cemetery of women and children, it contains a large number of civilian graves, many belonging to those who died during the Second World War. In total, over 3,000 individuals are buried here, including both civilians and military personnel, who lost their lives during the war and its immediate aftermath.
Video: How to get to Ereveld Kalibanteng
Inaugurated on the 22nd of April, 1949, Ereveld Kalibanteng was established as a sacred space to honour and remember the lives lost during a turbulent chapter in history. The cemetery is thoughtfully divided, with women’s graves located in the western part, men’s in the eastern, and children’s graves tenderly placed in the centre, symbolising the families torn apart by war.Â
Many of those interred here were civilians detained in Japanese prison camps across Central Java, such as Ambarawa, Banyu Biru, Lampersari, and Karangpanas, who succumbed to the wartime conditions between 1942 and 1945.Â
Over time,  the cemetery became a final resting place not only for those who perished in the immediate vicinity but also for many whose remains were brought from elsewhere in the archipelago. Initially, the Graves Registration Unit of the Royal Netherlands East Indies Army (KNIL) developed 22 war cemeteries across Indonesia. However, in a significant consolidation effort during the 1960s, at the request of the Indonesian government, these war cemeteries were merged into the current seven war cemeteries in Java, including Kalibanteng.Â
This cemetery, in particular, has seen the reburial of war victims from locations as diverse as Tarakan (1964), Balikpapan (1967), Palembang (1967) and Makassar (1968). Â
Crafted by Marian Gobius and revealed in 1954, features three bronze figures—a resolute woman standing tall, another in a posture of sorrow, and a boy between them, embodying the shared fate and resilience of women and children in those trying times.Â
A tribute to the unknown women war victims.
Serves as a silent testament to the enduring spirit of those who perished.
A celestial homage to the lives cut short by the war.
Unveiled in 1988 by sculptor Anton Beysens, portrays a gaunt young boy, a stark symbol of the innocent lives marred by the cruelties of war.
Main Gate
Parking Area
Pendopo, Information Centre & Guest Book
Toilet
Ereveld Kalibanteng Manager's Office
Gravestone Workshop
Flagpole
Symbolic Tomb for the Unknown Women
General Memorial
Pillars with Zodiac Signs
Pillars with Zodiac Signs
The Monument for Boys in Internment Camps
The Women's Monument
Pergola
General Visits:
During visiting hours, Kalibanteng war cemetery welcomes individuals and small groups to explore the grounds at their own pace. Visitors are invited to take time for quiet reflection on the histories and personal stories commemorated here. The peaceful pathways and memorials offer a contemplative space for anyone wishing to pay their respects.
Group Visitation and Tours:
For those interested in a more structured visit or group tours, it’s important to note the staff’s working hours. During these times, we may be able to accommodate group visits with a guided tour led by the war cemetery supervisor (with prior notice and confirmed availability). These tours offer a deeper insight into the significance of the site and the stories of those commemorated here, making them ideal for educational groups, organisations, or anyone looking to understand more about this historical site.
Guided Tours with Partner Organisations:
For visitors whose schedules do not align with our working hours, or who prefer a professional guided experience, we have partnered with reputable local guides in Semarang. Please let us know if you’re interested and we will redirect you to our partners.
If you’re interested in learning about the types of visits available at the war cemetery, please visit our Visit Us page.
Media coverage, research, flying drones, professional photography sessions and conducting events within the war cemetery requires permission. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in maintaining the sanctity of this solemn space.
Every day, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
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