City history
From a colonial administrative hub to the vibrant capital of West Java, Bandung's history is marked by its unique geography and significant political milestones.
Chapter one
Earliest documented name
"Likely derived from 'Bendung', meaning dam, or referring to being surrounded by mountains."
The name is traditionally linked to the topographical features of the Bandung Basin and the historical management of the Citarum river system.
Dam or surrounded
Became a central administrative town during the Dutch East Indies period.
Chapter two
During the Japanese occupation of the Dutch East Indies, time zones were adjusted to align with Tokyo Standard Time (UTC+9).
Following Indonesian independence, the country standardized its time zones, establishing Western Indonesia Time (UTC+7) for the island of Java.
Chapter three
The Dutch began establishing formal administrative structures in the Bandung area, marking its transition from a rural settlement to a colonial outpost.
Bandung hosted the historic Asian-African Conference, a landmark event that promoted Afro-Asian cooperation and paved the way for global decolonization.
The development of significant railway infrastructure connected Bandung more closely to Batavia, accelerating its growth as a commercial and residential center.