Francis Xavier Cathedral

Pulau Ambon


Named for the Basque missionary who visited Maluku in the 16th century, Francis Xavier Cathedral has a facade crusted with statues of saints and glimmering steeples.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Pulau Ambon attractions

2. Peace Gong

0.42 MILES

This central landmark next to Pattimura Park was unveiled in 2009 and bears the flags of all nations.

3. Benteng Victoria

0.43 MILES

Undramatic Benteng Victoria (out of bounds due to army use) is a Dutch-era fortress. The site of Indonesian national hero Pattimura's hanging, it’s…

4. Masjid Raya al-Fatah

0.55 MILES

The town’s biggest mosque, Masjid Raya al-Fatah is a modern concrete affair, its gold-and-brown onion dome visible across much of central Ambon. Non…

5. Commonwealth War Cemetery

1.62 MILES

Known to locals as the Australian Cemetery, this neatly manicured cemetery was designed by a British landscape architect in honour of Allied servicemen…

6. Museum Siwalima

2.49 MILES

This modest museum is ten minutes south of Kota Ambon, set in sloping landscaped gardens adorned with Japanese and Dutch cannons and a scowling statue of…

7. Santai Beach

6.89 MILES

This modest, partly rocky beach comes alive at the weekends when the locals arrive in force.

8. Namalatu Beach

7.45 MILES

Close to Leitimur's far southern tip, this shady south coast beach isn't great for swimming, but it's a popular hangout for the locals at the weekend.