Surabaya is known as the City of Heroes, but its history goes far beyond the events of Indonesia’s independence. As one of the country’s oldest and busiest port cities, Surabaya has been shaped by traders, political figures, military events, and communities from different backgrounds.
Today, you can still find traces of this history throughout the city. From museums and monuments to old neighborhoods and historic homes, these historical places in Surabaya offer an easy way to discover the stories behind the city.
Want to see a different side of Surabaya? Here are six historical places worth adding to your itinerary.
Historical Building in Surabaya
1. Heroes Monument
The Heroes Monument is one of the most iconic historical landmarks in Surabaya. Standing 41.15 meters tall, the monument was built to commemorate the Battle of Surabaya on 10 November 1945, when Indonesian fighters fought against British and Allied forces following Indonesia’s declaration of independence.
Located in the heart of the city, Tugu Pahlawan is also home to the Museum Sepuluh Nopember. Inside, visitors can learn more about the Battle of Surabaya through photographs, historical objects, weapons, and dioramas. It is a good starting point for understanding why Surabaya earned its nickname as the City of Heroes.
2. Submarine Monument
Want to see a real submarine without heading out to sea? The Submarine Monument lets you step inside KRI Pasopati 410, a Soviet-built submarine that was once operated by the Indonesian Navy.
The submarine served Indonesia from the 1960s and was involved in several military operations before being decommissioned in 1989. Today, visitors can explore its interior, including the crew quarters, control room, and other compact spaces that give you a glimpse into life aboard a military submarine.
3. Soekarno's Birthplace
Many Indonesians believe that Soekarno was born in Blitar. However, he was actually born in Surabaya. The House of Soekarno or Soekarno's Birthplace in Pandean is believed to be his birthplace, where Indonesia’s first president was born on 6 June 1901.
The modest house has been preserved as a heritage site and features displays about Soekarno’s early life and family. For travelers interested in Indonesia’s independence history, visiting the house offers a more personal perspective on the man who would later become the country’s first president.
4. House of H.O.S. Tjokroaminoto
The House of H.O.S. Tjokroaminoto is another important historical building in Surabaya, particularly for understanding the early nationalist movement. H.O.S. Tjokroaminoto was a prominent political and religious figure who led Sarekat Islam, one of the most influential organizations during Indonesia’s national awakening.
The house was also a boarding house for young students and activists, including a young Soekarno. Political and ideological discussions about Indonesia’s future took place here, making the house an important part of Surabaya’s history. Today, the building operates as a museum where visitors can see historical photographs, artifacts, and a recreation of Soekarno’s room.
5. Surabaya Old Town
If you want to see historical buildings in Surabaya while exploring the city on foot, head to Surabaya Old Town. The area around Jembatan Merah and Kembang Jepun contains a collection of old buildings that reflect Surabaya’s development as an important trading port.
The historic district includes several cultural areas, including the European, Chinese, Arab, and Malay zones. Walking through its streets, you can spot colonial-era architecture, old commercial buildings, and heritage sites that reflect the different communities that helped shape Surabaya.
6. Kya-Kya Chinatown
Located along Kembang Jepun, Kya-Kya Chinatown is part of Surabaya’s historic Chinatown and offers a different side of the city’s heritage. Chinese communities have been part of Surabaya’s history for centuries, particularly through trade and commerce.
Today, Kya-Kya combines this heritage with a lively food and entertainment scene. Chinese-inspired decorations, traditional shop houses, bilingual signs, and local food stalls give the area its distinctive atmosphere, especially in the evening. It is a fun place to explore if you want to experience Surabaya’s cultural heritage beyond museums and monuments.
Explore The History of Surabaya
Surabaya’s history can be found in more places than you might expect. A visit to its monuments, museums, historic homes, and old neighborhoods can reveal stories about Indonesia’s independence, maritime heritage, and the multicultural communities that shaped the city.
Whether you have a few hours or a full day to explore, these historical places in Surabaya are worth adding to your itinerary for a deeper look at the City of Heroes. Need a tour guide to explore those places? Book our Surabaya city tour today and do not hesitate to contact us for further information.
