Hotel Majapahit in Surabaya is not only an elegant and historical landmark but also a silent witness to Indonesia's journey toward independence. Originally known as Hotel Oranje, it was established in 1910 and officially opened in 1911 by Lucas Martin Sarkies, a member of the Armenian family prominent in the hotel industry in Southeast Asia. Built in the heart of Surabaya, the hotel featured distinctive colonial architecture that quickly made it a standout in the city.
The History of Hotel Majapahit: A Silent Witness to Surabaya’s Struggle for Independence
Since its founding, the hotel has changed names multiple times, reflecting the political and historical shifts in Indonesia. Starting as Hotel Oranje in 1912 under Dutch colonial rule, the hotel became a luxurious and well-known establishment catering to the colonial elite and international guests. Following Indonesia’s independence, the hotel was renamed became Hotel Yamato during the Japanese occupation in World War II, symbolizing the Japanese influence on Indonesia at the time.
After Indonesia achieved its independence, the hotel was renamed Hotel Merdeka, embodying the nation’s new sense of freedom and sovereignty. But after that the hotel renamed again after the Japanese occupation ended as LMS Hotel in honor of Lucas Martin Sarkies, who had passed away in 1941, shortly before the Japanese occupation began. Finally, in the post-colonial era, the hotel took on the name we know today, as Hotel Majapahit, to honor the historical Majapahit Kingdom, a symbol of Javanese pride and power. The name Majapahit resonates with Indonesian heritage, as the kingdom once represented the glory of an archipelago united under one rule.
Hotel Majapahit gained even more historical significance during the events of September,19 1945. At that time, just after World War II, Indonesia was declaring independence from Dutch colonial rule, but tensions between Indonesian fighters and the Dutch were high. On that day, a group of Dutch citizens hoisted the Dutch flag atop Hotel Oranje, which was a symbol of colonial authority in Surabaya. The Dutch flag, with its red, white, and blue stripes, was seen as a direct challenge to the Indonesian nationalists, who had just proclaimed their independence on August 17, 1945.
In a powerful display of defiance, a group of Indonesian freedom fighters, known as the "arek-arek Suroboyo" (youth of Surabaya), gathered to protest the flag's presence. The young fighters stormed the hotel, climbed to the top, and tore off the blue section of the Dutch flag, leaving only the red and white stripes, the colors of the Indonesian flag. That brave action was a critical moment in the struggle for Indonesian independence and demonstrated the fierce determination of the people of Surabaya.
This incident, known as the "Flag Incident of Yamato Hotel", intensified the nationalist movement and inspired other Indonesians to stand up for their independence. It also set the stage for the "Battle of Surabaya", a major confrontation between Indonesian independence fighters and the British forces who were supporting the return of Dutch colonial rule. The battle, which took place in November 1945, became a turning point in Indonesia’s fight for freedom and ultimately helped to encourage the movement toward full independence.
Today, Hotel Majapahit stands as a reminder of Surabaya’s role in Indonesia’s independence. The building has preserved its historical charm, including its colonial architecture and timeless interiors, offering visitors a journey through Indonesia’s history. Designated as a national heritage site, Hotel Majapahit now serves as both a luxury hotel and a historical landmark, allowing guests to experience the atmosphere of the past while remembering the courage and spirit of those who fought for Indonesia's freedom.
Hotel Majapahit has transformed from a colonial luxury retreat into a powerful symbol of Indonesia’s journey toward independence. Each of its name changes and historical events embodies a chapter in Indonesian history, making it not only a place to stay but also a site to remember and honor the resilience of Surabaya’s people.
Majapahit Hotel
Jl. Tunjungan No.65, Genteng, Kec. Genteng, Surabaya, East Java 60275
Phone: +62 31 545 4333
Instagram