MAIMOON PALACE

The existence of Maimoon Palace cannot be separated from the history of Medan city, that is as its location suggests must be a relation with pas rulers of any kingdom that put the foundation of Medan. Tradition of people mentions that in 1590 a leader named Raja Guru Patimpus founded a settlement with the name of Medan Putri, between Deli and Babura rivers. But at the end of 16th century the area become a battle field between Aceh and Deli rulers. When Dutch colony reached Medan in 1823 was recorded only 200 persons inhabitants of the village, and starting 1886 became the base of Dutch colony to manage various plantation estates and started to grow.

On south of present day Medan city was a kingdom named Aru located at what is now known as Deli Tua. In 1612 again Sultanate of Aceh defeated Aru and appointed Hisyamsudin as the representative, later change his name into Gocah Pahlawan. In 1632 Aceh established Deli kingdom with the first king Tengku Gocah Pahlawan. The 2nd king Marhum Kesawan moved the center of kingdom to current Medan city. The next king due to strong influence of Malacca the title of the king change into sultan, and Sultan Mahmud Al Rasyind who ruled Deli 1858 - 1893 built Maimoon palace, which is also known as Deli Sultanate Place. The palace was used as administrative center until world war II. The architect was Ir. Th. Van Erp who worked for Dutch king army at colonies the KNIL. The architecture reflects Malay, Indian, Persian and European blending. The whole palace covers 2.772 sq. M, main building constructed in 2 floors, and 2 wings.

The construction of Maimoon palace was started in 1888, and in 1891 it was already in use. The materials and furniture were imported from Europe, while the lay-out of the palace reflects Indonesian style. Until today the Sultan family live at the wing, while main building is open to visitors from 0800 to 1700 with entrance fee. Here is found also old damage canon, probably from Malacca belong to Portuguese trader. But local people created a myth that is not make sense about the existence of this old canon. For visitors to North Sumatra Maimoon palace is a must, as it is the architectural highlight and the acculturation of various arts. The visit is combined with the visit of Grand Mosque the biggest and most beautiful mosque in North Sumatra comparable to Great Mosque in Aceh.