Istana Damnah (Damnah Palace) – Replica
Dabo Singkep, Lingga, Riau Indonesia
Daik Island was once the administrative centre of the Riau – Lingga Kingdom. It is on Daik Island that Sultans ruled the Kingdom and found glory bringing fame and fortune to the Riau – Lingga Kingdom. That is Daik Island’s past and with such a glorious past; historical sites are a plenty. One of these sites is Istana Damnah or Damnah Palace.
A large airy hall.
Istana Damnah was once a regal building built by Sultan Sulaiman Badrul Alamsyah III who ruled from 1857 – 1883, at a time when the government of Riau – Lingga enjoyed great success. However, after the last sultan of Lingga, Sultan Abdul Rahman II Muadzam Syah left for Singapore, the palace was left uninhabited and slowly disintegrated into a ruin.
Not far from Linggam Cahaya Museum is a replica of Istana Damnah; a reminder of the original palace and all of its glory. This wooden palace may not be as huge as some of the world’s more famous palaces but it certainly has character.
Carving at one of the pillars.
Istana Damnah consists of two buildings; one the palace and the other, a hall or pavilion called ‘balairung seri’ where royal events are held. The palace is airy with large wooden windows. One its walls and pillars are intricately carved wooden panels made by skilled craftsmen back in the day.
Visitors to Istana Damnah (replica) may opt to have a meal there (prior arrangements need to be made). Visitors can also sit on the royal seats and take photos. The building is a good example of Malay architecture back then.
One of the panels with carving in it.
Things To Bring
As Daik Island is located very near the Equator, the area can get really hot. Here are some things that I recommend bringing when visiting Istana Damnah.
Drinking water
Battery operated fan
Insect repellent (mosquitoes are a plenty)
And remember your camera
The royal seats.
Location And Contact Details
Istana Damnah (Damnah Palace) – Replica
Merawang, Lingga Sub-District, Lingga Regency, Riau Islands 29872, Indonesia.
Google Maps to Damnah Palace – Replica
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