Maluku Museums and Art Galleries

(Maluku / Moluccan Islands, Indonesia)

There are numerous historically significant buildings on the Maluku Islands and on Pulau Neira in particular, some of which now play host to small and interesting museums. However, the opening hours of museums on Maluku can be quite variable, and so it may well be necessary to simply knock on the door and hope for a reply.

Located on the island of Pulau Ternate and completed at the very end of the 18th century, the Istana Kesultan is still used by the sultan and functions as a home for his family, as well as being home to a popular Maluku museum. Also notable is the town of Soasia, which lies on the south-easterly coast of Pulau Tidore and is home to a number of attractions, such as the Sonyine Malige Sultan's Memorial Museum and its regal artefacts.

Siwa Lima Museum

Address: Kota Ambon, Pulau Ambon, Maluku, Indonesia, ID
The Siwa Lima Museum is located on the island of Pulau Ambon, where it stands in the capital of Kota Ambon. This is a true cultural attraction and houses an extensive collection of both colonial and regional artefacts, collected and excavated from throughout the Maluku Islands. The Siwa Lima Museum is made up of two separate buildings and surrounded by some gorgeous tropical gardens. Nearby are awesome views across Ambon bay, as well as a charming Hindu Temple.
Open hours: Monday to Friday - 08:00 to 16:00
Admission: charge

Sangar Budaya Seram Museum

Address: Soahuku, Masohi, Pulau Seram, Maluku, Indonesia, ID
Although the Sangar Budaya Seram Museum may well be a little on the small side, it does contain plenty of interesting exhibits to savour and enjoy. Situated on the island of Pulau Seram and directly across from Amahai's Ebenhaezer Church, the museum offers intimate guided tours and the chance to learn about traditional Nau-ulul ceremonies.
Open hours: daily - 08:00 to 20:00, seasonal variations
Admission: charge

Sonyine Malige Sultan's Memorial Museum

Address: Soasio, Pulau Tidore, Maluku, Indonesia, ID
Close to both the white-washed bastions of the Royal Citadel (Istana Sultan) and the 17th-century Spanish fortress known as the Benteng Tohula, the Sonyine Malige Sultan's Memorial Museum boasts a number of valuable sultan treasures, which include a sedan chair, some large spittoons, and a royal crown (mahkota), which is decorated with cassowary feathers and believed by many to hold magical properties.
Open hours: by arrangement
Admission: charge

Rumah Budaya

Address: Jalan Gereja Tua, Bandaneira, Pulau Neira, Maluku, Indonesia, ID
The Rumah Budaya serves as the main museum in Bandaneira, within the Banda Islands of Maluku, and is known for its brightly coloured paintings and innumerable miniature calendars. Also here are some old maps and historical photographs, which are well captioned in English.
Open hours: by arrangement
Admission: charge

Keraton / Sultan's Palace (Istana Kesultan)

Address: Kota Ternate, Pulau Ternate, Maluku, Indonesia, ID
Tel: +62 0921 21166
This grand Sultan's Palace is still very much a family residence and dates back to the end of the 18th century, although its appearance is now more colonial in style, following renovation and restoration work over the years. A popular museum section is an integral part of the Istana Kesultan and contains an unusual array of military memorabilia, such as Dutch and Portuguese helmets and swords, shields and armour. There are also some important artefacts relating to past sultan reigns, along with information about the Ternatean royal family's genealogy. If you do come to this palace, be sure to check out the great views towards the Halmahera island, which are best enjoyed from the veranda.
Open hours: daily - 06:00 to 18:00
Admission: donations suggested