Dutch Colonial Buildings as Evidence of the Fusion of Local and Foreign Cultures

Abstrak

The Dutch Colonial presence in the Langsa region brought a significant influence on infrastructure development and cultural change in the area. The buildings left over from the Dutch Colonial period in Langsa are physical evidence of the interaction between the Dutch and the Acehnese people at that time. Therefore, the Dutch colonial building in Langsa City is clear evidence of the interaction of local and foreign cultures that occurred during the colonial period. Buildings such as Balee Juang, post office, PTPN1, School House (SMP N 1 Langsa), hospital (converted to SD N 1 Langsa), house of worship (mosque and temple), PDAM Langsa tower, Shophouse (Shop House), Pendopo, Kreta Api Station (converted into Satpol PP and WH offices located in the city of Langsa). The existence of this colonial building not only serves as a historical heritage, but also as a cultural identity that enriches Langsa City. However, the preservation of these buildings faces challenges, including a lack of appreciation of their historical value. Therefore, a collective effort is needed to maintain the authenticity and function of colonial buildings as part of the cultural heritage that connects the past and the present. The research used in this study is a historical or historical research method. The steps of historical research are heuristic, verification, interpretation, and historiography.