In the heart of Semarang, a city woven with historical threads and cultural vibrancy, stands Ereveld Kalibanteng. This Dutch war cemetery, situated along the remnants of the once-famed Great Post Road, is a silent testament to the past. Surrounded by serene canals and sheltered under the watchful eyes of towering banyan trees, the war cemetery is a final resting place for over 3,000 individuals, mostly civilians who faced the adversities of World War II.
With a notable presence of women and children among those laid to rest, it’s affectionately known as “the women and children’s war cemetery” a place where stories of endurance and sacrifice are cradled in its peaceful embrace.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
Kalibanteng War Cemetery Gate
Parking Area
Information Sign
Pendopo, Information Centre & Guest Book
Ereveld Kalibanteng Supervisor’s Office
Ereveld Kalibanteng Supervisor’s House
Toilet
Grave Sign Workshop
Flagpole
Symbolic Tomb for an Unknown Women (1942-1945)
Memorial Plaque
Pillars with Zodiac Signs
Pillars with Zodiac Signs
Monument for Boys in Concentration Camps
Women Monument
Pergola
Consisting of children war victims
Men war victims. There are also multiple graves from Pendrikan.
Men war victims.
Men war victims. There are also multiple graves from Blora, Palopo, Manipi, Makassar, Tegal/Bandjaratma, and Djatibarang
Women war victims. There are also multiple graves from Slawi.
Women war victims.
Women war victims. There are also multiple graves from Balapulang, Boemiajoe, Ambarawa, Muntilan, and Kroepoek
Women war victims.
Muslim war victims. There is also multiple graves
from Soengei Gerong.
General Visits:
During visiting hours, Kalibanteng war cemetery welcomes individuals and small groups to the serene grounds at their own pace, taking time to reflect on the histories and stories that the war cemetery holds. The tranquil paths and solemn monuments provide a contemplative environment for all who come 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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