The Origin of the City Surabaya

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Surabaya, the second-largest city in Indonesia, has a rich history and cultural heritage that dates back centuries. This article will take you on a journey through time to explore the origin of the city of Surabaya.

Surabaya’s name is believed to have originated from the words “sura” and “baya,” which mean “shark” and “crocodile,” respectively. These two animals once inhabited the area around the city’s harbor, which was a popular trading port for traders from China, India, and the Middle East.

During the 13th century, the city of Surabaya was a small fishing village. However, as trade began to flourish, the village grew into a thriving trading center. The city’s strategic location on the Brantas River and the Java Sea made it an important hub for trade between China, India, and the Middle East.

Throughout its history, Surabaya has been shaped by various cultural influences, including Hindu, Buddhist, and Islamic traditions. In the 15th century, the city was ruled by the Majapahit Empire, which was one of the most powerful empires in Southeast Asia at the time.

During the 16th century, the Portuguese arrived in Surabaya and established a trading post. However, they were eventually expelled by the Dutch, who went on to colonize Indonesia for over 300 years.

Under Dutch colonial rule, Surabaya continued to thrive as a major trading center. The city’s economy was fueled by the export of coffee, sugar, and tobacco, which were grown on the surrounding plantations.

During World War II, Surabaya became a battleground as the Indonesian National Revolution began. The city was occupied by the Japanese for three years before being liberated by the Allied Forces in 1945.

After Indonesia gained independence in 1949, Surabaya continued to grow and develop. The city became an important industrial center, with factories producing textiles, electronics, and automotive parts.

Today, Surabaya is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 3 million people. The city is home to numerous cultural and historical landmarks, including the Suramadu Bridge, the House of Sampoerna, and the Heroes Monument.

Surabaya is also known for its vibrant culinary scene, with local specialties such as soto ayam, rawon, and lontong balap.

In conclusion, the city of Surabaya has a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries. From its humble beginnings as a small fishing village to its status as a major trading center and modern metropolis, Surabaya has played an important role in the development of Indonesia and Southeast Asia as a whole.

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