The Javanese city of Surakarta (more commonly known as Solo) has plenty to offer the adventurous traveller. From visiting the historic royal palaces of the Javanese dynasties to exploring the many markets, or even indulging in a traditional Javanese massage at resorts, such as Alila Solo, for example, there’s plenty of things to do in Solo, Indonesia. It’s impossible to visit Surakarta and not view some of its world famous dyed batik fabric, the best of which is displayed at the House of Danar Hadi.
The Danar Hadi is one of the best museums in the world to see batik prints, with a collection of over a 10,000 pieces that encompasses rare antique prints and royal fabrics from Java, China and more. The museum is housed in an old colonial building and visitors are treated to a guided tour, which details the rich, long history of the many intricate pieces. From the origin of this art to its modern day use, you’ll discover that each beautiful creation has a unique pattern with its own story. During the tour, you can learn the differences behind the various forms of batiks. The Chinese batik for example, tells a story through the use of symbols whilst the royal Kraton batiks are delicate and regal in design.
There’s also a workshop located in the museum where you can watch skilled craftswomen at work using traditional techniques that have been passed down generations to create intricately unique, colourful patterns on sarongs, dresses, shirts, skirts and scarves. In addition, there’s also a souvenir shop inside where you can pick up a few novelty items or even some of the batiks that were made at the workshop.
The House of Danar Hadi is a must see for those who want to learn a little more about the work that goes behind the creation of these beautiful pieces of art, or even just pick up a few elegant pieces to take back home.
Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world.