Designated as a Cultural Heritage, the Great Mosque of Baiturrahman is Shining as a Religious Destination

JAKARTA - The preservation of mosques as cultural heritage has an important role in maintaining the value of history, identity, and religious tourism attraction.

This effort not only includes the physical maintenance of the building, but also sustainable management and promotion so that it remains relevant for future generations. One concrete example is the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque, which is now continuing to strengthen its management after being designated as a national cultural heritage.

The Aceh Culture and Tourism Office (Disbudpar) emphasized its commitment to improving the preservation and management of the mosque. The designation as a national cultural heritage by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Indonesia is considered a strategic step in strengthening Aceh's position as a leading religious tourism destination.

Head of Tourism Marketing Division of Disbudpar Aceh, Akmal Fajar, said,

"We are very grateful for the designation of the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque in Banda Aceh as a national cultural heritage by the Ministry of Culture. This designation will certainly further strengthen Aceh as one of the religious destinations."

He added that his party would continue to optimize promotions through various agendas, such as the Ramadhan festival and various other religious activities.

"We will place the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque in Banda Aceh on the list of main visits in a tourist package for tourists visiting Aceh," he said.

As one of the historical icons and pride of the Acehnese people, this mosque offers its own appeal. The existence of 12 units of electric umbrellas inspired by the Prophet's Mosque as well as other supporting facilities provides comfort for visitors.

He also explained that during the long holidays, including the celebration of Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah, the number of visitors to this mosque increased rapidly. Many tourists from outside the area come not only to worship, but also to enjoy the beauty of the mosque's architecture which is known as a symbol of "Serambi Mekah".

With various promotional and improvement measures for tourist destinations that continue to be carried out, the Aceh Disbudpar is optimistic that tourist visits, both domestic and foreign, will continue to increase, thus strengthening the attractiveness of tourism in Tanah Rencong.