Solo history

The history of the city of Solo, officially known as Surakarta, is closely linked to dramatic events in the history of Java. The city was founded in the mid-18th century when the ruler of the Mataram Sultanate, Pakubuwono II, was forced to relocate his capital. His previous palace city, Kartasura, was destroyed during an uprising in 1744. A village named Sala (or Solo) was chosen as the new site for the capital, and on February 17, 1745, the new palace complex—Keraton Surakarta Hadiningrat—was officially established here.

Solo's emergence as a major centre was driven by several key factors. Firstly, it was a political decision—creating a new symbol of power and stability following chaos. Secondly, its geographical location on the fertile plains near the Bengawan Solo River ensured the city's prosperity through agriculture and established it as a vital trade hub. A pivotal event in the city's early history was the signing of the Treaty of Giyanti in 1755, which divided the Mataram Sultanate. As a result, Solo became the capital of the newly formed Surakarta Sunanate, cementing its status as one of the two principal centres of Javanese power and culture alongside Yogyakarta.

From its very foundation, Solo evolved into a cradle of refined Javanese culture. The royal court (Keraton) became the primary patron of the arts, earning the city worldwide renown for its exquisite batik, melodious gamelan music, traditional wayang puppetry, and classical dance. Economically, the city developed as a hub for the trade of rice, sugar, and other agricultural produce, attracting merchants and contributing to its growth and prosperity.

Key Milestones in Solo's History

The history of Solo (Surakarta) is a chronicle of the rise and fall of Javanese kingdoms, colonial influence, and the struggle for independence, all of which have left a deep mark on the city's culture and architecture.

• 1744 — The ruler of the Mataram Sultanate, Pakubuwono II, decides to move the capital from the ruined palace in Kartasura.
• February 17, 1745 — The official founding of the city of Surakarta in the village of Solo, where the royal court relocates, marking the birth of the new capital.
• 1755 — Signing of the Treaty of Giyanti, which split the Mataram Sultanate into two: Surakarta and Yogyakarta, securing Solo's status as the capital of the Surakarta Sunanate.
• 1757 — Another smaller but influential princely court, the Mangkunegaran, is established within the city, adding complexity to Solo's political structure.
• Early 20th Century — Solo, under the protectorate of the Dutch colonial administration, becomes an important centre for anti-colonial and nationalist movements.
• 1945 — Following the proclamation of Indonesia's independence, the Sultanates of Surakarta and Mangkunegaran declare their support for the new republic.
• 1946 — Political struggles unfold in Solo, leading to the temporary loss of the city's special autonomous status.
• 1949 — During the war for independence, Indonesian troops retake the city from Dutch forces for several hours, serving as a significant symbolic act of resistance.
• 1950 — The Surakarta Sunanate officially becomes part of the unitary Republic of Indonesia, becoming a standard city within the province of Central Java.
• 1966 — Sebelas Maret University (Universitas Sebelas Maret) is founded in the city, named after the date of the order transferring power to President Suharto, strengthening Solo's status as an educational hub.

Major Stages of City Development

The development of Solo (Surakarta) is a journey from a feudal capital to a modern centre of cultural tourism and commerce. The key transformations of the city can be divided into several significant stages that have defined its current appearance and status in Indonesia.

• Foundation and Urban Planning Origins (1745)

  The relocation of the royal court from the ruined Kartasura to the village of Sala marked the starting point of urbanization. The drainage of marshlands near the Bengawan Solo River and the construction of the palace complex according to strict cosmological canons transformed the rural area into a planned administrative centre.

• Formation of a Dual Power Centre (1757)

  The establishment of the Mangkunegaran principality within the existing Sultanate created a unique urban structure with two palaces. This political division led to healthy competition in the arts and urban planning, enriching the city's architectural ensemble with parks and European elements.

• Infrastructure Modernization (Late 19th Century)

  The construction of a railway connecting Solo with Semarang and Yogyakarta turned the city into a logistics hub. The appearance of train stations, the telegraph, and electricity stimulated the export of sugar and tobacco, integrating the local economy into global markets.

• Flourishing of the Batik Industry (Early 20th Century)

  In the Laweyan district, a powerful batik production cluster emerged, managed by local merchants rather than the aristocracy. This led to the birth of an independent middle class and the creation of the country's first mass economic organization—"Sarekat Dagang Islam" (Islamic Trade Union)—which forever changed the city's economic landscape.

• Post-Colonial Transformation (1946–1950)

  After the proclamation of independence and the subsequent revocation of its special autonomous status (Daerah Istimewa), Solo transitioned from feudal governance to a democratic municipal system. Palace squares and assets became part of the public space, opening the city to the general population.

• Urban Reform and Rebranding (2005–2012)

  Under the leadership of Mayor Joko Widodo, a large-scale revitalization of the urban environment was conducted. A programme for the conflict-free relocation of street vendors to civilized markets, the creation of green zones, and the launch of the "Solo: The Spirit of Java" brand turned the city into a model of successful urban planning.

• Infrastructure Leap (Modern Era)

  Connection to the Trans-Java Toll Road, modernization of Adisumarmo Airport, and the launch of the commuter train (KRL) have significantly improved transport accessibility. This has stimulated an influx of investment in the hotel business and MICE tourism (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions).

Architectural Appearance: From Javanese Cosmos to Tropical Art Deco

The architecture of Solo represents a dialogue frozen in stone between deep local traditions and Western influence. Unlike many modern metropolises, the city has preserved its historical fabric, where street layouts and building placements are often dictated not only by utility but also by ancient Javanese cosmology.

Eras and Architectural Styles

The urban development of Solo can be divided into three key stages, each leaving its unique imprint on the face of the city.

• Traditional Javanese Architecture (from 1745)

  Era: Foundation of the Sultanate.
  The city was built around the royal residence along a north-south axis. The main architectural elements are the joglo (a traditional roof in the shape of a truncated pyramid) and the pendopo (an open pavilion on columns). These buildings were designed to ensure air circulation in the tropical climate of Indonesia and to correspond with spiritual hierarchies.

• Colonial Classicism and "Indische" Style (19th Century)

  Era: Dutch East Indies.
  With increasing European presence, local nobility began to adopt Western elements. A hybrid "Indische Empire Style" emerged. It combined the monumentality of European Neoclassicism (white columns, high ceilings, marble) with Javanese layouts, creating majestic and spacious residences.

• Tropical Art Deco and Modernism (Early 20th Century)

  Era: Modernization and Ethical Policy.
  At the beginning of the last century, new-wave architects like Thomas Karsten began working in the city. They introduced Art Deco and early Modernism, adapting them to local conditions (sun protection, ventilation). This was the era of functional public buildings: markets, train stations, and hospitals.

Landmark Buildings and Districts

Solo's appearance is shaped by several key sites that vividly illustrate the blending of cultures:

• Keraton Surakarta: The benchmark of Javanese palace architecture with a symbolic layout, including sacred banyan trees and vast squares (Alun-alun).
• Pura Mangkunegaran: A unique palace where a traditional Javanese pavilion is adorned with Italian marble and European chandeliers, reflecting the taste of an "enlightened monarch".
• Pasar Gede Market: A masterpiece by Thomas Karsten (1930), combining the concrete structures of Modernism with a traditional Javanese roof.
• Fort Vastenburg: An example of 18th-century colonial military architecture, reminiscent of European bastions of that era.
• Laweyan District (Kampung Batik Laweyan): A historic quarter of wealthy batik merchants, built up with high walls and cosy mansions combining Javanese, Chinese, and European features.

Distinguished Personalities Connected to Solo

The city of Solo (Surakarta) has gifted Indonesia and the world with many talented and influential people. From founders of royal dynasties to modern politicians and artists—their contributions have shaped not only the history of the city but also that of the entire country.

• Pakubuwono II (1711–1749)

  Role: Sultan of Mataram, Founder of Surakarta.
  Significance: In 1745, he made the historic decision to move the capital of his Sultanate from the ruined Kartasura to the village of Solo, thereby founding the city of Surakarta and establishing the Keraton (Royal Palace). This move determined Solo's future destiny as one of the main political and cultural centres of Java.

• Mangkunegara I (1725–1795)

  Role: Founder of the Mangkunegaran Principality, National Hero of Indonesia.
  Significance: Also known as Raden Mas Said or Prince Sambernyawa ("Soul Reaper"), he was an outstanding warrior and strategist. In 1757, he established the second royal court in Solo—Pura Mangkunegaran—initiating a unique cultural competition that enriched Javanese art.

• Gesang Martohartono (1917–2010)

  Role: Composer and Singer.
  Significance: The author of the world-famous song "Bengawan Solo", dedicated to the city's main river. This melody in the keroncong style became the unofficial anthem of Solo and one of the most recognizable symbols of Indonesian culture on the international stage.

• Slamet Riyadi (1927–1950)

  Role: Military Leader, National Hero of Indonesia.
  Significance: One of the key commanders during the Indonesian War of Independence, born in Solo. He played a decisive role in military operations across the country, including the famous four-day assault on Solo in 1949. The city's main street bears his name.

• Sapardi Djoko Damono (1940–2020)

  Role: Poet, Literary Critic, Professor.
  Significance: One of the most influential and beloved poets in modern Indonesia, born in Solo. His lyrical and stylistically simple poems have had a huge impact on the development of Indonesian literature and continue to inspire new generations of readers and writers.

• Joko Widodo (born 1961)

  Role: Politician, former Mayor of Solo, 7th President of Indonesia.
  Significance: Before his election as President, Joko Widodo (known as Jokowi) served as the Mayor of Solo from 2005 to 2012. During this time, he implemented successful reforms that transformed the city and made it more liveable for residents, which brought him nationwide fame and served as a springboard for his subsequent political career.