National Monument (Monas)

The Flame of Independence

Inaugurated in 1975 in the center of Merdeka (Independence) Square, the National Monument — Monas — commemorates the struggle for Indonesian independence. The 132-meter marble obelisk is crowned by a 14-meter flame sheathed in 38 kg of gold leaf.

An Observation Deck

A viewing platform near the top gives a panorama across Jakarta's sprawling megacity. Beneath the monument, a museum tells the story of the independence movement.

A National Symbol

Monas is the geographical and symbolic heart of Jakarta — the point from which distances to other Indonesian cities are measured, and the stage for national celebrations every August 17, Independence Day.