Medan history

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of the city of Medan dates back to the late 16th century. The official founding date is considered to be July 1, 1590. The settlement was founded by Guru Patimpus Sembiring Pelawi, who hailed from the Karo people. Initially, it was a small village named Kampung Medan (or Medan Putri).

The name itself has several interpretations: translated from Indonesian and Malay, it means "field" or "square," whereas in the Karo language, the word is associated with the concept of "healing." Early records describe the settlement as a strategic point located at the confluence of the Deli and Babura rivers, which played a decisive role in its future destiny.

Key Factors of Formation

The transformation of a small village into a thriving centre within modern Indonesia was driven by three main factors:

• Geography: Its favorable location in the swampy yet fertile river delta provided natural access to the Strait of Malacca — the region's most important trade artery. This made the settlement a convenient logistics hub.
• Political Power: In the mid-17th century, the territory came under the influence of the Sultanate of Deli. The patronage of the Sultans provided the administrative structure and protection necessary for the development of trade and the attraction of settlers.
• Trade and Commerce: Initially, Medan served as a place for exchanging goods between coastal residents and highlanders. However, the turning point was the discovery by the Dutch of the exceptional potential of the local soil for growing tobacco, which subsequently attracted massive foreign investment.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

Even at the dawn of its existence, the city demonstrated traits that defined its unique character:

• Ethnic Diversity: Founded by a representative of the Karo people and developing under the rule of Malay Sultans, Medan was a crossroads of cultures from the very beginning. Later, with the development of the plantation economy, merchants from China and workers from India and Java began to arrive, forming a complex multicultural tapestry.
• Agrarian Lifestyle: Before the onset of industrialization and the tobacco boom, the economy was predominantly agrarian. The life of the early settlement was inextricably linked to the river, which served as a source of water, food, and the main transport route.

Key Dates in the History of Medan

• July 1, 1590 — Considered the official founding date of the city by Guru Patimpus Sembiring as a small settlement called "Kampung Medan".
• 1632 — The settlement becomes part of the Sultanate of Deli, marking the beginning of its development under the rule of local monarchs.
• 1860s — Dutch colonists begin developing the land around Medan for tobacco cultivation, triggering an economic boom.
• 1872 — The Dutch finally conquer Medan from the Sultanate of Deli, consolidating their colonial rule in the region.
• 1888 — Construction is completed on the magnificent Istana Maimun (Maimun Palace), which became the residence of the Sultans of Deli and a symbol of the city's prosperity.
• 1906 — The Great Mosque (Masjid Raya) is erected, becoming one of the main architectural and religious symbols of Medan.
• 1915 — Medan officially becomes the capital of the North Sumatra province, cementing its administrative status.
• 1918 — The settlement receives official city status, recognizing its rapid growth and economic importance.
• 1942–1945 — The city, like all of Indonesia, is under Japanese occupation during World War II.
• August 17, 1945 — Following the proclamation of Indonesian independence, Medan becomes one of the key cities of the new republic.

Key Milestones in Medan's Development

The transformation of Medan from a small village into a thriving metropolis was driven by a series of key events that defined its economic, cultural, and urban character.

• The Tobacco Boom (1860s): The development of land by Dutch entrepreneurs for growing high-quality tobacco was the starting point for rapid growth. Significance for the city: This attracted immense investment, turning Medan into a major commercial hub and earning it the nickname "Het Land Dollar" ("The Land of Money").
• Development of Transport Infrastructure: The construction of a railway connecting plantations to the port of Belawan was a crucial step. Significance for the city: Medan transformed into the main logistics and export hub of Sumatra, facilitating the export of tobacco, rubber, and palm oil to world markets.
• Formation of a Multicultural Society: Workers from China, India, and the island of Java were brought to the city en masse to work on plantations. Significance for the city: This laid the foundation for Medan's unique multi-ethnic and multi-religious character, which remains its distinctive feature today.
• Acquiring Capital Status: In 1886, Medan received city status, and in 1915 it was officially appointed the capital of the North Sumatra province. Significance for the city: This strengthened its administrative and political role, stimulating further development of urban infrastructure and governance.
• Architectural Flourishing (Late 19th – Early 20th Century): During this period, iconic structures were built, including the Sultan's Maimun Palace (1888), the Great Mosque Al-Mashun (1907), and numerous colonial-style buildings. Significance for the city: A unique architectural appearance was created, leading to Medan being called the "Paris of Sumatra".
• Growth After Independence: After becoming part of the Republic of Indonesia in 1950, Medan continued its development. Significance for the city: It established itself as the largest city in Sumatra and one of Indonesia's leading economic centres outside of Java, becoming the financial and commercial "gateway" to the western part of the country.

The architectural appearance of Medan is a unique canvas blending indigenous traditions, the grandeur of the Sultanate, and the European influence of the colonial era. The city's development from a small village to the economic centre of Sumatra is directly reflected in its buildings, forming an eclectic and memorable urban landscape.

The Colonial Era (Late 19th – Early 20th Century)

The "Golden Age" of Medan's architecture occurred during the period of Dutch rule, when the city became a prosperous centre of the plantation economy. This phase gifted the city with numerous elegant buildings, earning Medan the nickname "The Paris of Sumatra".

• Dutch Colonial Style and Art Deco: This period is characterized by a blend of European architectural trends with tropical elements. Buildings were constructed with high ceilings, large windows, and verandas for better ventilation. Striking examples include the old City Hall (Balai Kota Lama), the main post office, and the Tjong A Fie Mansion. Many of these structures exhibit features of the Art Deco style popular at the time.
• Neo-Gothic: European styles also permeated religious structures. An example is the Protestant Church of the Savior Emmanuel, whose façade is executed in the Neo-Gothic style.

Legacy of the Sultanate of Deli

Parallel to colonial development, the rulers of the Sultanate of Deli created their own architectural masterpieces, which today stand as the city's main symbols. These buildings demonstrate a unique synthesis of various cultures.

• Maimun Palace (Istana Maimun): Built in 1888-1891, the palace is the jewel of Medan's architecture. Its design harmoniously combines elements of Malay, Mughal (Indian), Islamic, and European (specifically Italian) architecture. This reflects the multicultural connections and wealth of the Sultanate.
• Great Mosque Al-Mashun (Masjid Raya Al-Mashun): Erected in 1906-1909, the mosque became another symbol of the Sultan's grandeur. It was designed by a Dutch architect who combined Moroccan, Middle Eastern, and Malay styles in the project. Its octagonal shape and luxurious Art Nouveau stained glass make it a unique structure.

Multicultural Influence and Modernity

Medan has always been a "melting pot" of cultures, which is reflected in its architecture. Alongside mosques and churches, the city is home to numerous Chinese and Hindu temples, such as Vihara Gunung Timur — one of the largest Taoist temples in Indonesia. In the post-industrial era, the urban landscape has been complemented by modern office buildings, shopping malls, and hotels that stand adjacent to historical developments, creating a contrasting yet dynamic look for modern Medan.

Distinguished Personalities Associated with Medan

Medan, as one of Indonesia's largest cultural and economic centres, has been the birthplace or base of operations for many iconic figures who have left their mark on the country's history, politics, and arts.

• Tjong A Fie (1860–1921)

  Role: Entrepreneur, philanthropist, and leader of the Chinese community.
  Significance: A Chinese immigrant who became one of the wealthiest people of his time through plantations and trade. Tjong A Fie invested heavily in the development of Medan, funding the construction of roads, bridges, and public buildings, including his famous mansion which has become one of the city's main attractions. He was appointed by the Dutch administration as the "Major of the Chinese," representing the interests of his community and fostering intercultural dialogue.

• Amir Hamzah (1911–1946)

  Role: Poet, National Hero of Indonesia.
  Significance: A recognized classic of Indonesian literature and a pioneer of modern poetry. Born into the aristocratic family of the Sultanate of Langkat, near Medan, he received a brilliant education. His poetry collections, such as "Buah Rindu" (Fruits of Longing) and "Nyanyi Sunyi" (Songs of Silence), are considered gems of Indonesian literature, combining Sufi mysticism with Malay traditions. His tragic death during the social revolution of 1946 made him a symbol of his generation.

• Chairil Anwar (1922–1949)

  Role: Poet, leader of the "Generation of '45" literary movement.
  Significance: Born in Medan, Chairil Anwar became a central figure in 20th-century Indonesian literature. His expressive and rebellious style broke with traditional canons, and his poem "Aku" ("I") became a manifesto of individualism and the struggle for freedom. Despite his short life, he had a profound influence on the development of the Indonesian language and literature, laying the foundations for modern poetic language.

• Adam Malik (1917–1984)

  Role: Politician, diplomat, 3rd Vice President of Indonesia.
  Significance: One of the founding fathers of Indonesian journalism and co-founder of the Antara news agency. Although born in Pematangsiantar, his career began in Medan, where he was a political activist. Adam Malik served as Minister of Foreign Affairs, President of the UN General Assembly, and Vice President of Indonesia (1978–1983), playing a key role in shaping the country's foreign policy post-1966.

• Burhanuddin Harahap (1917–1987)

  Role: Politician, 9th Prime Minister of Indonesia.
  Significance: Born in Medan, Burhanuddin Harahap was a prominent figure in the Masyumi Party. In 1955–1956, he led the Indonesian government as Prime Minister while simultaneously serving as Minister of Defense. His cabinet went down in history for successfully organizing the country's first-ever parliamentary elections.

• Lyodra Ginting (born 2003)

  Role: Singer, actress.
  Significance: One of the brightest stars of the modern Indonesian pop scene, born in Medan. Winner of the 10th season of "Indonesian Idol" and the international Sanremo Junior competition in Italy. Lyodra is known for her powerful vocals and use of the "whistle register" technique, which has brought her numerous musical awards and widespread popularity both in Indonesia and abroad.