If you ever find yourself wandering around Bukittinggi, there’s this hilltop spot that locals know well: Fort De Kock. At first glance, it’s just some old cannons and a bridge, but the place has a pretty wild backstory.
Back in the early 1800s, West Sumatra was caught up in the Padri War, basically a clash between two groups: the Padri, who wanted stricter Islamic rules, and the Adat folks, who were sticking to their Minangkabau traditions. Things got heated, and the Adat asked the Dutch for backup.
So in 1825, Captain Bauer set up a star‑shaped fort on Bukit Jirek hill. At first it was called Sterreschans, but later renamed Fort De Kock after Hendrik Merkus de Kock, the Dutch commander. From up there, the Dutch had a killer view, perfect for keeping an eye on the Padri and slowly tightening their grip on the area. Around the fort, little by little, a colonial town grew which became Bukittinggi.
Fast forward a century or two: the war ended, Indonesia eventually gained independence, and the fort lost its military purpose. Instead of soldiers, you’ve now got families, tourists, and kids running around. The original buildings are gone, but the cannons, moats, and memorial stone are still there. And the coolest part? The fort connects to the zoo and cultural park via the Limpapeh suspension bridge, so you can literally walk from history straight into a family day out.
Fort De Kock isn’t just a relic. It’s a reminder of how Bukittinggi grew out of conflict and colonial influence, but today it’s more about heritage, leisure, and Instagram shots. Whether you’re into history or just want a chill place with a view, it’s worth the stop.
