Medan

The Allied Occupation of Sumatra SE7515

Medan old city hall

Peta Lokasi Kecamatan Kota Medan

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COLLECTIE TROPENMUSEUM Vrouwen van de diverse bevolkingsgroepen voor het stadhuis in Medan waar ze een bloemenhulde geven aan de vliegers van de eerste commerciële vlucht Holland-Batavia tijdens een tusenlanding TMnr 60046354

COLLECTIE TROPENMUSEUM Eem kar met warong Medan TMnr 10013836

Great mosque in Medan cropped

Medan is the capital city of the North Sumatra province in Indonesia. It is the largest city in Sumatra and the third-largest city in Indonesia after Jakarta and Surabaya. Medan has played a significant role in the economic, social, and cultural development of Indonesia, particularly in the Sumatra region. The city's growth has been closely linked to the history of trade, plantation agriculture, and its strategic position in the Strait of Malacca.

History

Medan's history dates back to the 1590s when the area was a part of the Delhi Sultanate. It was later colonized by the Dutch East Indies in the 17th century, which significantly influenced its architecture, culture, and development. The city's name is believed to have been derived from an Indian word "Maidan," meaning "ground" or "field," which reflects its early function as a trading ground.

Geography

Medan is located in the northeastern part of Sumatra, bordered by the Malacca Strait to the north. The city's geography is characterized by flat plains, making it conducive for agriculture and urban development. Medan's climate is tropical rainforest, with high humidity and rainfall throughout the year.

Economy

The economy of Medan is diverse, with sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and services contributing significantly to its growth. The city is a major producer of tobacco, palm oil, and rubber, benefiting from its fertile lands and strategic location for export-oriented industries. Medan also serves as a commercial and economic hub for the region, attracting investments and facilitating trade through its port and infrastructure.

Culture

Medan is known for its rich cultural diversity, with a population comprising various ethnic groups including the Batak, Malay, Javanese, Chinese, and Indian communities. This multiculturalism is reflected in the city's culinary scene, festivals, and social life. Medan is famous for its culinary specialties, such as Soto Medan, Bika Ambon, and Durian dishes, which draw visitors from across the country and abroad.

Tourism

Tourism in Medan has grown, thanks to its historical landmarks, cultural diversity, and natural attractions. Notable sites include the Maimun Palace, a royal palace of the Sultanate of Deli; the Tjong A Fie Mansion, a historical mansion belonging to a prominent Chinese businessman; and the Great Mosque of Medan, one of the largest mosques in Indonesia. The city also serves as a gateway to natural attractions in North Sumatra, such as Lake Toba and the Gunung Leuser National Park.

Transportation

Medan is served by the Kualanamu International Airport, one of the largest airports in Indonesia, providing domestic and international flights. The city also has an extensive road network and public transportation system, including buses, taxis, and a recently developed urban rail system, the Medan Light Rail Transit.

Education

Medan is a center for education in Sumatra, hosting several prominent universities and institutions. These include the University of North Sumatra and Medan State University, which offer a wide range of programs and contribute to the city's reputation as an educational hub.

Healthcare

The city is equipped with numerous healthcare facilities, including public and private hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical centers. These institutions provide a broad spectrum of healthcare services to the residents of Medan and the surrounding regions.