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Maimun Palace
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Landmark
Maimun Palace (Istana Maimun) in Medan is the most iconic landmark of North Sumatra's capital and served as the royal seat for the Sultanate of Deli. Constructed between 1888 and 1891 under Sultan Ma'mun Al Rashid Perkasa Alamyah, the building features a unique blend of Malay, Islamic, and European architectural styles. The design was the work of Italian architect Theo van Erp, who was also involved in the restoration of the Borobudur temple. The palace covers an area of 2,772 square meters and consists of 30 rooms, with the magnificent throne room on the upper floor being open to the public. The yellow color of the palace is the traditional color of Malay royalty and dominates both the facade and the interior decor. Historical artifacts, family photographs of the sultanate, and traditional costumes are displayed throughout the palace, providing a deep insight into Medan's colonial and royal history.
- Location: Indonesia
- Top sights: Tjong A Fie Mansion · Museum Daerah Sumatera Utara · Museum Uang Sumatera
- Nearby: Berastagi (21 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 25 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 25 |
| Rain mm | 149 | 90 | 142 | 137 | 200 | 137 | 168 | 199 | 261 | 310 | 233 | 250 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Maimun Palace in Medan is open to the public and can be visited on guided tours. The interior showcases the rich history of the Deli Sultanate.
Typical hours
The palace is typically open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Fridays may have reduced hours due to prayer.
Photography
Photography in the courtyard and of the facade is allowed. Inside rooms with furniture and art objects, photography is usually restricted.
Time needed
Allow about 1 to 1.5 hours for a guided tour. The palace and its gardens invite a leisurely stroll.
Combine with
Combine the palace visit with a walk through Medan's old town. The nearby Great Mosque of Medan (Masjid Raya Al-Mashun) is also worth seeing.
Getting there
The palace is centrally located in Medan, easily reached by car or taxi. It is about a 40-minute drive from Medan Airport.
Insider tip
Hire a local guide to better understand the details of the mixed architecture. Early morning is the least crowded time to visit.
Geography
Facts
- Built between 1888 and 1891
- Designed by Theo van Erp
- Area of 2,772 square meters
- Seat of the Sultanate of Deli
- Consists of 30 rooms
- Yellow color symbolizes royalty
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Maimun Palace (15)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is the palace yellow?
Yellow is the color of royalty in Malay culture and for the Sultanate of Deli.
Can visitors rent traditional clothes?
Yes, visitors can rent traditional Malay royal costumes for photos for a small fee.
Is the palace still inhabited?
Certain wings of the palace are still inhabited by descendants of the Sultan.
What architectural styles are found here?
The palace combines Malay, Islamic, Spanish, Indian, and Italian architectural elements.
Where is Maimun Palace located?
It is located in the center of Medan, the capital of North Sumatra.
Maimun Palace: where is it located?
Maimun Palace is located in Indonesia.
Maimun Palace: what is there to see?
Highlights include Tjong A Fie Mansion, Museum Daerah Sumatera Utara, Museum Uang Sumatera.
Maimun Palace: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Maimun Palace: why is it worth visiting?
Maimun Palace (Istana Maimun) in Medan is the most iconic landmark of North Sumatra's capital and served as the royal seat for the Sultanate of Deli.
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