According to a ministry press statement here on Saturday, the minister inspected three important historical sites in the Hila–Kaitetu area of Central Maluku District, which include Amsterdam Fort, Immanuel Church, and the Old Wapauwe Mosque.
“Amsterdam Fort is one of the forts that still stands firmly. The Portuguese were the first to arrive in this area,” he said during his visit to the fort.
The historical area in the past was central to the spice trade.
“This fort once served as a residence, an observation post, and a spice center. It was later used by the Dutch. Rumphius, a scientist from Germany, also lived at this site,” he added.
The minister then continued his inspection to Immanuel Church, located within the Amsterdam Fort complex. The church, believed to have been built in 1512, is considered an early witness to encounters between the people of Maluku and Europeans.
“This church is currently being rehabilitated by the Ministry of Culture. The woodwork, walls, and roof are almost completed,” he said.
He also visited the Old Wapauwe Mosque, the oldest mosque in Maluku, built in 1414.
“The architecture of this mosque is remarkable, as it still uses materials from this region and was constructed without nails. All of its structures are traditional and remain well preserved,” he said, noting that the mosque continues to be used for worship.
He emphasized the need for regular maintenance of the mosque, particularly its roof, which requires care every 10 to 20 years.
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Translator: Hreeloita, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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