Semarang’s richly atmospheric old city, often referred to as the Outstadt, its Dutch name, is well worth investigating. Sadly, most of the area’s tremendous stock of colonial buildings are in an advanced state of decay, seemingly unloved and left to rot by the city authorities. At the heart of this old quarter is the elegant church Gereja Blenduk , built in 1753, which has a huge cupola, a spectacular baroque-style organ and an unusual wooden pulpit.
If the gates aren't locked tight, knock on the door and ask the caretaker to let you in. He just might! Towards the river from the church there are dozens of crumbling old Dutch warehouses, municipal buildings and townhouses with shuttered windows, flaking plaster and peeling paint. Be sure to drop by the Semarang Gallery .
The old city is prone to flooding; if you visit during the rainy season it may not even be possible to explore some of the back streets. Towards the centre of the city, Pasar Johar is one of Semarang’s main markets. Facing the market is Semarang’s Mesjid Besar .
