The 132-metre obelisk at the centre of Merdeka Square is Jakarta's defining landmark. Built between 1961 and 1975 to commemorate Indonesia's independence, it is topped with a flame sheathed in 35 kg of gold leaf. Lifts carry visitors to the observation deck for a wide panorama of the city. The basement houses a diorama museum tracing Indonesian history from prehistoric times to independence.
National Monument (Monas)
Gold-tipped 132-metre obelisk marking Indonesian independence