Nestled in the heart of the vibrant Kemang area in South Jakarta, there lies a hidden gem that seamlessly combines art, history, and nature. Welcome to Museum di Tengah Kebun, a delightful oasis that captivates visitors with its warm and inviting ambiance.

Tucked away on Jalan Kemang Timur 66, this unique tourist destination offers an experience like no other. Finding the Museum di Tengah Kebun may be a bit of an adventure, as its discreet signboard and tall wooden gate keep its wonders hidden. But fear not, modern technology comes to the rescue with location search applications like Google Maps and Waze, guiding you to this enchanting spot.

As you step through the gate, a serene 60-meter-long pathway adorned with lush greenery leads you toward the main building. The relaxed atmosphere and captivating flora set the stage for an unforgettable journey.

This privately owned museum, once belonging to the late Sjahriar Djalil, boasts an astonishing collection of 2,840 historical artifacts from 64 countries, including 21 provinces in Indonesia. Prepare to be amazed by the oldest exhibits, such as tree fossils from the Triassic Period, shell fossils dating back approximately 200 million years, and even bee fossils.

Since opening its doors to the public in 2009, the Museum di Tengah Kebun has become a treasure trove of paintings, statues, wayang (shadow puppets), ceramics, masks, and other captivating objects. Each item is meticulously arranged throughout the 700-square-meter building, accompanied by its name and the year of its creation.

The museum's founder, Sjahriar Djalil, was an enterprising entrepreneur in the advertising industry who tirelessly collected these artifacts, each with its own unique story. Take, for instance, the small horse statue from the Tang Dynasty in 9th-century China. Its acquisition was an auction triumph fueled by Djalil's unwavering determination.

Adding to the museum's allure, the very materials that construct its 700-square-meter building have intriguing histories of their own. Bricks that once formed the ancient VOC buildings at the fish market in Jakarta, dating back 400 years, imbue the museum with their legacy. Even the door hinges originated from the former women's prison at Bukit Duri, tracing back to the 18th century.

With items sourced from various auction houses across Europe, America, Hong Kong, and Australia, the Museum di Tengah Kebun offers a wealth of knowledge and insight into different cultures and eras. Syahrial Djalil's profound love for history and his deep-rooted nationalism inspired him to establish this haven of historical treasures.

As you conclude your two-hour museum tour, you'll find yourself in the serene garden at the back of the house. Here, the late Syahrial Djalil, the founder and owner of the Museum di Tengah Kebun, rests in eternal peace since his passing on April 17, 2019.

The museum's mission goes beyond the display of artifacts. It serves as a platform for learning and understanding human civilization. True to Djalil's vision, entrance to the Museum di Tengah Kebun is absolutely free of charge, ensuring that all Indonesian people can access these invaluable insights.

While admission is free, visitors are kindly requested to register before their visit due to limited visiting hours on Saturdays and Sundays. Two sessions are available, one in the morning from 09:30 to 11:30 and another in the afternoon from 12:30 to 14:30. These measures are in place to ensure a comfortable museum experience and preservation of the collection.

Embark on a captivating journey through time and culture at Museum di Tengah Kebun, where art, history, and nature intertwine harmoniously, leaving visitors with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of human heritage.