Syahbandar Tower, observation tower in Jakarta, Indonesia

Syahbandar Tower is a 12-metre-high, 4-by-8-metre structure on the site of the former Culemborg bastion. Its white lower shaft has red-framed openings and three projecting window hoods; above sits a deep red section with dark rectangular openings, capped by a wide overhanging roof with exposed beams.

Dutch authorities built the tower in 1839 to monitor ship traffic and guide merchant vessels entering Sunda Kelapa Harbor. This was part of the trade infrastructure that supported spice commerce between European powers and the region.

The tower stands on the site of the Culemborg bastion, part of Batavia's 1645 western city wall. An iron door beneath the tower once led into an underground passage toward Fort Frederik Hendrik; the tunnel entrance is now sealed. A monument signed by Governor Ali Sadikin in 1977 marks the former Kilometer 0 nearby.

You can explore the interior rooms and climb to the observation platform to see the harbor from above. The tower is located near the Maritime Museum, making it easy to combine visits to both places.

The tower leans noticeably to one side and moves visibly when heavy vehicles pass on the nearby street. This phenomenon has given it the local name Menara Miring (tilted tower) and makes it a remarkable example of the foundation challenges faced in Batavia's harbor.