It is the only remaining bascule-style bridge from the Dutch colonial era in Jakarta.
The name 'Hoenderpasar Brug' translates to 'Chicken Market Bridge' due to its proximity to a local market in the 17th century.
The bridge was rebuilt in 1655 after being destroyed during a conflict, and again in 1938.
It was designed to lift manually to permit the passage of mast-equipped vessels moving between the canal and the sea.
Jembatan Kota Intan is a 17th-century Dutch-era bascule bridge located in the Kota Tua district of Jakarta. Originally constructed in 1628 by the Dutch East India Company, it is the oldest bridge in Indonesia. Known historically as the English Bridge (Engelse Brug) and later the Chicken Market Bridge (Hoenderpasar Brug), it facilitated maritime trade by allowing smaller ships to pass into the harbor. The bridge is constructed primarily of timber and iron, reflecting Dutch hydraulic engineering from the colonial period. It spans the Kali Besar canal, which once served as a primary transportation artery for Old Batavia. The structure has undergone several restorations to maintain its integrity against the tropical climate and surrounding canal environment. It remains one of the few surviving examples of movable bridge architecture in Southeast Asia. The area surrounding the bridge offers a direct window into the layout of the former VOC trading settlement.
Position yourself at the canal level on the north side of the bridge to capture the symmetry of the span against the canal water.
Visit during the morning to avoid the intense midday heat, as there is minimal shade on the bridge itself.
Combine your visit with a walking tour of the nearby Kali Besar canal revitalized area.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes as the area around the canal can have uneven surfaces.
Do not attempt to climb or sit on the historical railings, as the wood and metal structure is fragile and subject to conservation efforts.
