Surabaya, Provincial capital in East Java, Indonesia
Surabaya is a port city on the northeastern coast of Java with more than 3 million residents, serving as a commercial hub with connections to the surrounding islands. The city spreads along the waterfront and links to neighboring Madura Island through the Suramadu Bridge.
The city grew from a 10th-century settlement under the Kingdom of Janggala and became a trading harbor linking Malacca with the Spice Islands by the 15th century. During the 20th century it gained symbolic importance for Indonesian independence through armed resistance against returning colonial forces.
Street vendors serve freshly prepared meals like Rawon and Rujak Cingur throughout the day, blending Javanese and Madurese cooking traditions into dishes that reflect the mixed origins of the local population. Neighborhood markets bring together traders from different backgrounds, while religious celebrations from Muslim, Chinese and Christian communities shape the rhythm of daily life across the city.
Tanjung Perak seaport handles large cargo volumes in the northern part of the city, while the Suramadu Bridge offers direct access to Madura Island. Many neighborhoods can be explored on foot or by motorbike, but distances between districts are often considerable.
The Heroes Monument in the city center recalls the 1945 battle when local fighters resisted the return of Dutch colonial troops, an event that led to the city being called Kota Pahlawan, or City of Heroes. This confrontation played a role in shaping national consciousness during the early years of Indonesian independence.
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