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Benteng de Kock
Benteng de Kock was built by the Dutch during the Padri Wars. Apart from the defensive moat and a few rusting cannons, very little remains of the original fortifications. It does, however, provide fine views over the town from its hilltop position. Clouds migrate over rusted tin roofs brought to life by the evening call to prayer.
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Jam Gadang
Jam Gadang is Bukittinggi's Big Ben and is the centre of the city's provincial activities: schoolchildren crowding under shade trees and day-trippers smiling for photo opportunities. The tower was built in the 1920s to house the Dutch queen's clock gift. After independence, the European homage was refitted with a Minangkabau roof.
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Museum
A footbridge leads from the fort over Jl Ahmad Yani to Taman Bundo Kandung, site of the museum. The museum, constructed in 1934, is an example of Minangkabau architecture, with its small amphitheatre and colourful statues. It is the oldest museum in the province and has a dusty collection of Minangkabau historical and cultural exhibits. The nearby zoo is just depressing.
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Pasar Atas
Pasar Atas is a large, colourful market crammed with stalls selling fruit and vegetables, second-hand clothing and crafts. It's open daily, but the serious action is on Wednesday and Saturday, when the stalls overflow down the hill and villagers from the surrounding area come to haggle and ogle.
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Taman Panorama
Taman Panorama, on the southern edge of town, overlooks the deep Ngarai Sianok (Sianok Canyon). This is especially scenic at sunset, when fruit bats swoop through the canyon. Guides will approach visitors under the auspices of friendship; don't get confused, this is how business works in Indonesia and payment is expected, even if an explicit price is never discussed.
Showing 1-5 of 5 results
