116 jaar Javaanse immigratie, Immigration memorial in Groningen, Suriname
The structure stands on Monument Square in Groningen and displays a three-meter-tall carving showing an elderly Javanese couple dressed in traditional clothing beneath a shining sun. The entire form resembles a mountain and combines Javanese design with depictions of local plants, animals, and farming scenes.
The memorial marks the arrival of thousands of Javanese contract workers who migrated to Suriname beginning in 1890 and continuing into the 1930s. This wave of migration significantly shaped the region's society and workforce for generations.
The memorial is shaped like a mountain and blends Javanese heritage with carvings showing regional plants and animals. When you look at the reliefs, you can see scenes of farm work and local nature that reflect how the early arrivals lived.
The memorial is centrally located on Monument Square in Groningen and is easily accessible on foot. Annual commemorations take place here on August 9 and are open to visitors from the community.
The stone carvings include precise details of traditional Javanese garments such as sarongs and head coverings worn by the workers. These carefully carved details preserve the memory of how the migrants dressed and identified themselves.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
