Brief History of the Cirebon Kingdom and the Palaces Around It

The Cirebon Kingdom is one of the famous Islamic kingdoms in West Java. The formation of this kingdom occurred after Raden Walangsungsang studied under Sheikh Nurul Jati in Kebon Pesisir. So, what is the historical story of the Cirebon Kingdom? Let's take a look at some interesting reviews below.

The Story of the Cirebon Kingdom

The Cirebon Kingdom is located on the northern coast at the border area of West Java and Central Java. The name Cirebon comes from the word caruban which means mixture. The people living in this region come from various backgrounds with the intention of settling or trading.

The establishment of the Cirebon Kingdom essentially took place around the 15th and 16th centuries. This kingdom was founded by Syarif Hidayatullah, commonly known as Sunan Gunung Jati. 

In the context of spreading Islam, together with the Demak Kingdom army, Sunan Gunung Jati and his son successfully established the Banten Kingdom and the Cirebon Kingdom, thus known as Fatahillah.

However, the history of the Cirebon Kingdom reveals that Sunan Gunung Jati ultimately chose to lead the Banten Kingdom. Meanwhile, his son took over the power to govern the Banten Kingdom. Sunan Gunung Jati even succeeded in seizing power from the Hindu Pajajaran Kingdom and spreading Islam in this region.

Nevertheless, Sunan Gunung Jati essentially had a close relationship with the Pajajaran Kingdom. If we delve into this family lineage, Sunan Gunung Jati is essentially the son of Nyai Rara Santang, one of the descendants of Prabu Siliwangi who ruled the Pajajaran Kingdom.

The successful spread of Islam to several regions led to the rapid development of the Banten Kingdom, led by Sunan Gunung Jati. Political and economic systems that operated in trade also flourished during this time. 

Interestingly, Syarif Hidayatullah also managed to expand the territory to the Sunda Kelapa port.

The ongoing cooperation with the Demak Kingdom allowed the Cirebon Kingdom, led by Syarif Hidayatullah, to effectively resist Portuguese influence. 

The history of the Cirebon Kingdom even states that Sunan Gunung Jati focused more on a coastal kingdom-style governance system.

Likewise, the implementation of decentralization politics was able to enhance the intensity of Islamic preaching development throughout the Sunda land. Certainly, the conquest of Sunda Kelapa port and the choice of governance model made this kingdom even stronger. 

The Banten Kingdom even successfully established cooperation with the Malacca, Champa, Chinese, Indian, and Arab nations.

Unfortunately, the glory of the Cirebon Kingdom could not last long. The very advanced condition of Cirebon due to the governance of Sultan Hidayatullah made this region a target for foreign powers after Sultan Hidayatullah passed away in 1568. One of the parties eager to seize this territory was the Dutch, who had the VOC organization.

The VOC organization established by the Dutch at that time introduced a trade monopoly in the Cirebon region. Nevertheless, the Banten Kingdom continued under Panembahan Ratu and Panembahan Gerilya under Dutch protection as a protectorate.

However, the history of the Cirebon Kingdom ultimately met its demise when this region was divided among the three sons of Panembahan Gerilya.

Read also: Exploring the Early History of the Gowa Tallo Kingdom and Its Decline

Heritage of the Cirebon Kingdom

1. Kasepuhan Palace

The Kasepuhan Palace or Pakungwati Palace was built by Prince Cakrabuana, the uncle of Sunan Gunung Jati. 

The name Pakungwati Palace is based on the affection given to his daughter who became the wife of Sunan Gunung Jati. This palace has 2 gates and features pancaratna and pancaniti buildings.

2. Kanoman Palace

This building is also closely related to the Cirebon Kingdom as it was founded by Prince Kertawijaya. This place features many buildings as it once served as the residence of the Cirebon sultans. The Kanoman Palace was even used to store the carriages used during the Cirebon Kingdom.

3. Kacirebon Palace

Similarly, you can visit the Kacirebon Palace to store ancient items. This palace, built since 1800 AD, houses many kris, gamelan musical instruments, weapons, wayang, and others. This palace features a large building that extends southward.

4. White Tiger Statue

The statue consisting of 2 white tigers symbolizes the historical heritage of the Cirebon sultanate. The white tiger signifies the extended family of Pajajaran from the lineage of Prabu Siliwangi. 

The local community even believes that this statue serves as a guardian with sacred and mystical qualities.

5. Tomb of Sunan Gunung Jati

As a person who played a significant role in the history of the Cirebon Kingdom, the tomb of Sunan Gunung Jati is located on a small hill known as Gunung Sembung. 

This burial complex is situated along the Cirebon-Indramayu route. Interestingly, this tomb is often visited for pilgrimage as it is one of the saints who fought to spread Islam.

These are some reviews you need to know about the Cirebon Kingdom. This kingdom was essentially formed to spread Islam in West Java. In fact, the Cirebon Kingdom left behind many palaces that had important functions in their time. This kingdom also has various other legacies that can be explored when visiting Cirebon.

Read also: Unveiling the History of the Glory of the Banten Kingdom and Its Heritage 

cc image: radar cirebon