Profile Of Aceh : Seuramoe Mekkah Land

Maps Of Aceh

(Source : www.newbali.info | 1.bp.blogspot.com | en.wikipedia.org)

     Aceh is one of the province located in the west corner of Indonesia, South East Asia. The capital city of Aceh province is Banda Aceh City, also known as Kutaradja City. Aceh has through rich of historical era, started from Mesolititikum era 3.000 BC. After that, entered hindu-budha kingdom era in 600-1500 C. Then entered Islamic kingdom era in 800-1900 C. In this era, many islamic kingdom formed and centered in Aceh such as Jeumpa, Peureulak, Lamuri, Samudra Pasai and Aceh Sultanate. Aceh Sultanate was one of the strongest power in Indonesia that struggled to colonialism of Netherland since 1500 C.

     The islamic kingdom era was the last historical era in Aceh history. At this moment, Aceh known as "Seuramoe Mekkah Land" which mean the reflection of Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Beside that, the history of "Seuramoe Mekkah Land" formed because Aceh has grown as transit place for moslem around the South-West Asia to gathered and study islam before going to Mecca to discharge hajj.

     The prosperity of Aceh Sultanate in 1500-1900 C has affected to the heritage and culture in Aceh untill this day. Many mosque spread in everyside in Aceh. One of the most beatiful mosque located in center of Banda Aceh City known as Baiturrahman Mosque has become the icon of this "Seuramoe Mekkah Land". In the culture of Aceh, islam has become their soul. Mostly woman in Aceh wear hijab. Azan reverbrate in everytime of prayes's time.

     Although moslem dominate the population in Aceh, but non-moslem life in peace alongside the moslem society. It proved by many China town that formed in many city of Aceh. In Banda Aceh City for example, there's China town known as Peunayong. Chinese society in Peunayong play as important role in trading activities. They are one part of Aceh. Very rarely there is an conflict between moslem-non moslem in Aceh. So that, Aceh is one place that has many beaty and uniqueness in nature, heritage and culture but also classified as place that safe to be visited. (/hafi)