32 Interesting, Cool, Facts About Surabaya, Indonesia

1. Surabaya’s Rich Historical Tapestry

Nestled in the heart of Indonesia, Surabaya stands as a living testament to its historical journey, with remnants of Dutch colonial architecture adorning its bustling streets. A striking example is the enduring Maybank Building, an architectural gem that speaks volumes of the city’s colonial past. Despite being overshadowed in population size by Jakarta, the capital of East Java has proven its mettle, earning the prestigious title of the top tourism city at the 2018 Yokatta Wonderful Indonesia Tourism Awards. Moreover, Surabaya clinched a Special Mention at the 2018 Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize, a nod to its innovative urban development strategies. Notably, the city has achieved robust economic growth while fostering a greener environment—Surabaya boasts approximately 100 parks, constituting more than 20 percent of its urban landscape.

2. Surabaya’s Economic and Demographic Tapestry

Within its city limits, Surabaya housed a population of 2.89 million in 2019, underscoring its vibrant urban life. Expanding beyond the immediate urban confines, the extended Surabaya metropolitan area enveloped a staggering 9.5 million residents, solidifying its status as the second-largest metropolitan region in Indonesia. These demographic dimensions not only highlight the city’s urban sprawl but also emphasize the diverse tapestry of life woven into the fabric of Surabaya.

3. The Echoes of History: The Battle of Surabaya

In the annals of Indonesia’s struggle for independence, the Battle of Surabaya emerges as a defining chapter. This historic confrontation unfolded in the aftermath of the audacious act by the Arek-Arek Suroboyo (Teenagers of Surabaya), who, on the ominous date of 30 October 1945, assassinated the British Brigadier Mallaby. The fateful incident occurred in proximity to the iconic Jembatan Merah, or the “Red Bridge,” with the British officer falling victim to what was purportedly a stray bullet. The Battle of Surabaya, etched in the collective memory, resonates as one of the pivotal moments in the Indonesian revolution, where the spirit of resistance against colonial forces blazed brightly.

10. Surabaya: Indonesia’s Second-Largest Urban Tapestry

Surabaya, the sprawling metropolis that proudly wears the crown of Indonesia’s second-largest city, emerges as a vibrant tapestry on the archipelagic canvas, second only to the bustling heart of the nation, Jakarta. Nestled within an expansive expanse of approximately 374.8 square kilometers (144.7 square miles), this urban giant harbors the heartbeat of more than 3,123,914 souls who call it home.

11. Surabaya: East Java’s Cultural Nexus

This revelation may not startle the discerning observer, considering that Surabaya stands as the proud capital city of the East Java province. Within the veins of this urban organism, the lifeblood is the Javanese tribe, constituting the primary denizens of Surabaya. Yet, it is not merely a monolithic cultural enclave, for it accommodates a kaleidoscope of migrants from diverse corners, coexisting with a nomadic essence that adds a distinct hue to the city’s social fabric.

12. Bastion of Defense: Surabaya’s Strategic Significance

As daylight bathes Surabaya in its warm glow, the city becomes more than a cultural nucleus. It metamorphoses into a strategic fortress, hosting the headquarters of Kodam V / Brawijaya—the regional command responsible for safeguarding the Indonesian Army’s interests in East Java Province. The formidable East Armada of the Navy finds its locus in the bustling Tanjung Perak Port, weaving the maritime threads that bind Surabaya to Indonesia’s security tapestry.

13. Sentinel of the East: Surabaya’s Naval Command

Picture the East Armada of the Indonesian Navy, a vigilant guardian, overseeing the vast expanse of the eastern Indonesian frontier. This maritime bastion finds its anchor in Surabaya, where the headquarters orchestrates a symphony of defense, resonating through the oceanic waves that caress the nation’s shores. Additionally, the East Java Police, custodians of law and order, have established their headquarters within the city, further fortifying Surabaya’s role as a sentinel of the east.

14. Surabaya’s Mythic Moniker: Where Shark Meets Crocodile

Beyond the concrete and naval might, the very essence of Surabaya finds its essence in a name that transcends the mundane. The city’s nomenclature, Surabaya, is an enchanting amalgamation of two formidable creatures. ‘Suro,’ akin to the stealthy shark, intertwines with ‘Bio,’ embodying the stoic crocodile. This unique fusion serves as an emblematic testament to the city’s character, where the aquatic synergy of these creatures mirrors the spirit of Surabaya—ever dynamic, resilient, and symbolic of Indonesia’s rich cultural mosaic.

29. Ludruk: Surabaya’s Spontaneous Musical Comedy

In the vibrant city of Surabaya, Indonesia, a unique form of artistic expression known as Ludruk takes center stage. Unlike conventional stand-up comedy, Ludruk stands out for its distinctive feature – an impromptu musical script. The performers engage in a spontaneous exchange of lyrics, weaving a narrative without the aid of prepared melodies or scripts. The resounding spontaneity adds an intriguing layer to this form of entertainment, where the fusion of humor and musicality captivates audiences in Surabaya’s cultural landscape.

30. Linguistic Richness: Surabaya’s Distinctive Accents

Among the diverse Javanese accents, Surabaya’s stands out as the thickest, leaving an indelible mark on its native speakers. Whether traversing the city’s bustling streets or venturing beyond its borders, a Surabaya native is invariably recognized by the resonant tones of their distinct accent. This linguistic richness serves as a testament to the city’s cultural identity, contributing to a sense of uniqueness that distinguishes Surabaya from other regions. Motivation – Mind – Success – Thinking – Productivity – Happiness

31. Culinary Delights: Exotic Tastes of Surabaya

Surabaya tantalizes the taste buds with a plethora of unconventional and exotic culinary delights. Rujak cingur, a dish featuring boiled cow nose bathed in a piquant shrimp paste sauce, exemplifies the city’s daring gastronomic landscape. Venturing further, one encounters gut satay, a grilled delicacy comprising spicy-seasoned chicken intestines, and kikil, a dish spotlighting cow leg served in a delectably spicy soup. Surabaya’s culinary tapestry extends beyond these, offering an array of mouthwatering snacks that beckon exploration and culinary adventure. How AI, ChatGPT maximizes earnings of many people in minutes

32. Tugu Pahlawan: A Monumental Tribute to Surabaya’s Valor

In the heart of Surabaya stands Tugu Pahlawan, a monument akin to Washington Monument in America. Erected to honor the heroic endeavors of those who fought in Surabaya, this monumental structure stands as a symbol of the city’s resilience and courage. Surabaya’s history unfolds a narrative of a populace united in the face of adversity, displaying remarkable bravery despite the utilization of rudimentary weapons. Bamboo sticks, honed to a sharpened edge, served as the weaponry of choice, showcasing the tenacity of Surabaya’s people in their fight against formidable foes.