The beautiful Jakarta Cathedral (katedraljakarta.or.id) is another iconic symbol of the city and, with three wrought-iron spires (two of which reach 60m in height) and its neo-Gothic design, it is instantly recognizable. The cathedral is built in the shape of a cross, and while the exterior looks like it’s constructed from stone, the cathedral is actually built from red brick, and plaster gives it a stone-like appearance. The interior of the cathedral is beautiful, with the high, arched teak ceiling presiding over the 60m-long central aisle, and 5m-long wings on either side of the main altar. Officially called Gereja Santa Maria Pelindung Diangkat ke Surga, or Church of Our Lady of Assumption, the Roman Catholic church was first constructed in 1829; the building collapsed in 1890 and the new cathedral was consecrated in 1901.
Jakarta Cathedral is open to visitors throughout the day, but be aware that this is a fully operating place of worship, and services are held regularly; it is also used for weddings.
