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St. Michael’s Church: A Blend of Architecture and Batak Culture in Samosir
St. Michael’s Church is a Catholic church located in the town of Pangururan, the capital of Samosir Regency, North Sumatra. The uniqueness of this church lies in its inculturative architecture, which combines elements of the local Batak Toba culture.
The facade and shape of the church building are similar to the traditional Batak Toba, with a boat-shaped roof and distinctive wooden carvings. Built in 1997, the church celebrated its silver jubilee in 2022. The church altar is dedicated to St. Michael, the patron saint of the parish.
Unique Features of Inculturative Architecture:
- Facade and building shape resemble Batak Toba traditional houses
- Boat-shaped roof
- Distinctive Batak wooden carvings
- Carvings of Jesus and the Eucharist on the front
- Carving of St. Michael on the top
- Facing Pusuk Buhit, a mountain considered the origin of the Batak people
- Pusaka Batak Toba Museum underneath
Location and Accessibility:
- Address: Jl. Uskup Agung Soegiopranoto 1, Pardomuan I, Pangururan, Samosir Regency, North Sumatra 22392
- Directions:
- Private vehicle: Medan – Tebing Tinggi – Pematang Siantar – Parapat – Simanindo – Pangururan
- Public transportation: Medan – Parapat (bus/travel) – Parapat – Pangururan (ferry/speed boat)
Entrance Fee and Opening Hours:
- Entrance fee: Free
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM WIB
- Mass:
- Sunday: 9:00 AM
- Wednesday: 6:00 PM
Activities:
- Admire the unique church architecture
- Visit the Pusaka Batak Toba Museum
- Worship and pray in the church
- Join the parish community
- Enjoy the view of Lake Toba and the hills
Facilities:
- Pusaka Batak Toba Museum
- Parking area
- Meeting room
- Classrooms
- Toilets and ablution facilities
Tips When Visiting:
- Come on Sunday or Wednesday to attend mass.
- Wear neat and respectful clothing.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Enjoy the view of Lake Toba and the hills.
- Visit the Pusaka Batak Toba Museum.
St. Michael’s Church offers a unique religious tourism experience with its beautiful inculturative architecture and strong Batak cultural influence. Visit this church to experience a captivating blend of culture and spirituality.
