It was reportedly constructed in 1602 by Fatahillah or his soldiers during their campaign against the Portuguese.
The mosque is locally known as 'Masjid Si Pitung' because of its proximity to the historical site associated with the folk hero Si Pitung.
The mosque’s structure originally relied on coral rock and lime mortar, materials readily available in the coastal Marunda area during the 17th century.
The roof design uses a three-tiered 'tumpang' style, characteristic of early mosques in the Indonesian archipelago.
Four central wooden pillars, known as 'soko guru', support the main prayer hall and remain original to the structure.
It is situated near the Marunda coastal area, which was historically a significant harbor point during the Dutch colonial era.
The mosque complex includes the tomb of a local religious leader, which serves as a site for communal pilgrimage.
Despite its proximity to the sea, the mosque has survived centuries of coastal erosion and weather exposure.
Masjid Al Alam, located in Marunda, North Jakarta, is a historic mosque built in the 17th century, widely considered one of the oldest in the city. It features a blend of Javanese, Chinese, and European architectural influences, reflecting the historical trade culture of the area. The mosque is constructed with thick walls and a unique tiered roof design typical of early Indonesian Islamic architecture. Unlike modern urban mosques, it sits in a relatively quiet coastal area, maintaining its original modest scale. It remains an active site for local worship and is recognized as a cultural heritage site by the Jakarta government. The building has undergone several restorations to preserve its original materials while ensuring structural integrity.
The front facade, which highlights the unique tiered roof structure and ancient lime-washed walls.
Visit during the morning to avoid the intense heat of the North Jakarta coastal sun.
Respect ongoing prayer times by keeping a distance from the main prayer hall if you are not there to worship.
Combine this visit with a trip to the nearby Rumah Si Pitung to better understand local history.
Avoid taking intrusive photographs of people who are currently engaged in prayer.
Conservative dress is mandatory; women should wear a headscarf, and all visitors must remove footwear before entering the interior prayer hall.
