Grahadi State Building Surabaya
A historic 1795 Dutch colonial villa, now the East Java Governor's residence and a symbol of Surabaya's rich past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Grahadi State Building Surabaya
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1795 Dutch colonial villa, now the East Java Governor's residence and a symbol of Surabaya's rich past.
"A prominent historical building with great architecture, serving as the East Java Governor's residence."
Check for Demonstrations
Grahadi is a frequent protest site. Stay informed about local events to avoid disruptions. :mega:
Respect the Building
It's a historical landmark and active government building. Be mindful of your conduct. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Colonial Architecture
Exterior
Admire the Dutch colonial villa design with Greek-style columns and wide terraces, a testament to its 1795 origins.
Governor's Official Residence
Main Building
See where the Governor of East Java resides and hosts state ceremonies, a symbol of regional governance.
Historical Significance
Throughout the grounds
Explore a site that has witnessed Dutch rule, independence struggles, and modern Indonesian history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand Its Dual Nature
Respect Its Heritage
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check for Demonstrations
Grahadi is a frequent protest site. Stay informed about local events to avoid disruptions. :mega:
Respect the Building
It's a historical landmark and active government building. Be mindful of your conduct. :pray:
Admire the Architecture
Take time to appreciate the classic Dutch colonial design and its historical details. :camera:
Understand its Function
It's the Governor's residence and a venue for ceremonies, not just a museum. :office:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check for Demonstrations
Grahadi is a frequent protest site. Stay informed about local events to avoid disruptions. :mega:
Respect the Building
It's a historical landmark and active government building. Be mindful of your conduct. :pray:
Admire the Architecture
Take time to appreciate the classic Dutch colonial design and its historical details. :camera:
Understand its Function
It's the Governor's residence and a venue for ceremonies, not just a museum. :office:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Grahadi State Building is recognized for its significant historical value and impressive Dutch colonial architecture, serving as a prominent landmark and the Governor's residence. While appreciated for its well-maintained facade and historical importance, visitors should be aware of its active government function and frequent use for demonstrations, which can impact accessibility and the overall visitor experience.
"Gedung Negara Grahadi is a prominent historical building in Surabaya, built in 1795 during the Dutch colonial era by Dirk van Hogendorp. Originally designed as a riverside garden house facing the Kalimas River, it was later reoriented and renovated in 1810 under Governor-General Daendels into a Dutch colonial villa with classical architectural elements, including Greek-style columns and wide terraces.
Spanning over 16,000 square meters, the two-story building is constructed with red brick walls, teakwood beams, and large windows to suit the tropical climate. It has served various roles throughout history—from a governor’s residence to a Japanese headquarters, a colonial court, and a site of diplomatic negotiations during Indonesia’s independence struggle.
Today, Grahadi functions as the official residence of the Governor of East Java and a venue for state ceremonies. Open to public tours, it stands as a living monument to Surabaya’s colonial past and national history."
Arif Nur Muhammad Ansori
"Official House Governor of East Java, it is one of historical building since Netherland come to this country. It is a place for official ceremonial when we have a celebration. It has a great architecture! One of point of interest at Surabaya."
Edwin Azmiramdhan Sulaiman (Edwin / Lemon)
"This is where east java's governor stay.. it's has a rich historical background.. well maintained and clean.. usually used for ceremony purposes.."
andre alim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Grahadi State Building is centrally located in Surabaya. You can reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services, or local public transport. Many visitors find ride-sharing apps convenient for navigating the city.
Parking availability can vary, especially on days with demonstrations or official events. It's advisable to check in advance or consider using ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles.
Ride-sharing apps like Gojek and Grab are popular and efficient for getting around Surabaya. Local buses also serve the area, but may be less direct.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Grahadi State Building is primarily an active government building and the Governor's residence. While it's a historical site, public access might be limited or restricted, especially during official functions or demonstrations. It's best to check for any specific tour availability or visiting hours.
As an active government building, Grahadi does not have fixed public opening hours like a museum. Access may be restricted. It's advisable to check local announcements or inquire with local authorities for any public viewing opportunities.
Public tours of the interior may be limited or require prior arrangement, as it serves as the Governor's residence and a venue for official ceremonies. Some reviews suggest it's not always open to the public.
Information on admission fees is scarce as it's not a typical tourist attraction. If public access is granted, there might be a nominal fee or it could be free. It's best to confirm locally.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can admire the impressive Dutch colonial architecture from the outside, learn about its historical significance as a former governor's residence and a site of important events, and observe its role in current East Javanese governance.
Yes, the building's grand architecture and historical facade make it a good spot for photography, especially from the exterior. Be mindful of any restrictions on photography, particularly if there are official events.
Information on regular guided tours is limited. It's best to inquire locally or check for any special event announcements that might include public access or guided experiences.
Built in 1795, it's a significant historical landmark that has served as a governor's residence, a Japanese headquarters, and a site for diplomatic negotiations, reflecting Surabaya's colonial and independence history.
Be aware that Grahadi is a frequent site for demonstrations and protests, which can sometimes turn disruptive. It's also an active government building, so respect its function and any restricted areas. +2
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the area around Grahadi State Building has numerous dining options, from local eateries to fast-food chains. You can find various Indonesian dishes and international fast food nearby.
Generally, no. As a government building and historical site, food and drinks are typically not permitted inside. There are many dining options in the vicinity if you need to eat.
📸 📸 Photography
The front facade with its colonial columns and grand entrance is ideal. The surrounding grounds also offer good vantage points, especially during less crowded times.
While exterior photography is generally allowed, it's wise to be discreet and avoid photographing sensitive areas or during official functions. Always respect signage and security personnel.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the building's details. Late afternoon can also offer good lighting, but be mindful of potential crowds or events.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, families should be mindful of the building's frequent use for demonstrations. If a protest is occurring, it might be best to observe from a safe distance or postpone the visit to ensure a calm and enjoyable experience for children. Checking local event schedules beforehand is highly recommended.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
Exploring the exterior allows for appreciation of the classical Dutch colonial design, while understanding its varied historical functions—from a governor's residence to a site of independence negotiations—provides deep context. It's a place where architectural heritage meets significant national events.
📸 Photographers
For the best shots, aim for morning or late afternoon light to highlight the architectural details. Be aware of potential crowds, especially if there are official events or demonstrations, which can add a dynamic element to your photos but may also limit access to certain angles.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Throughout its existence, Grahadi has been a silent witness to pivotal moments in Indonesian history. It has served multiple roles, from being the residence of Dutch governors to a headquarters for the Japanese military, a colonial court, and a crucial venue for diplomatic negotiations during Indonesia's fight for independence. This rich past makes it a tangible link to Surabaya's colonial era and its journey towards nationhood.
Today, the building continues its legacy as the official residence of the Governor of East Java and a primary location for state ceremonies and official functions. While it stands as a monument to the past, it remains an active center of regional governance, embodying the continuity of history and administration in East Java.
Navigating Demonstrations and Public Access
Due to its status as an active government building and the Governor's residence, public access to Grahadi can be variable and sometimes restricted. Unlike a museum, it doesn't have set visiting hours for general tourism. Information regarding public tours or specific times when visitors can explore the grounds or interior is often limited. It's advisable to check local news or inquire locally about any scheduled events or public access policies before planning a visit.
Travelers have noted that while the building is historically significant, its primary function as a government site means it's not always open for casual exploration. The presence of demonstrations can also create a dynamic and sometimes tense environment. Therefore, a visit to Grahadi requires a degree of flexibility and awareness of the local context.
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