Sikka Old Church

Sikka Old Church, officially known as the Church of Saint John Baptista, is a deeply revered historical and religious sanctuary situated in Sikka Village, along the southern coast of the Sikka Regency, eastern Flores. Built in 1899 by Jesuit priest Father John Engbers in collaboration with the local Sikka royalty, this iconic structure stands as one of the oldest European-influenced wooden churches in Indonesia. It remains a living symbol of the harmonious fusion between European architectural styles and indigenous Flores culture. 

For travelers, Sikka Old Church offers a profound journey into the island's colonial and spiritual past, serving as an essential heritage stopover that captures the deep-rooted faith and artistic soul of the Sikka people. 

Best Activities to Do on Sikka Old Church 

• Marveling at the Unique Ikat-Weaving Interior Design: The defining highlight of Sikka Old Church is its extraordinary interior walls. Instead of traditional European fresco paintings, the church walls are meticulously hand-painted with intricate, geometric motifs inspired by local Ikat weaving patterns, specifically the royal Sikka Brenge motif. This brilliant design choice beautifully merges sacred Catholic iconography with the deep tribal heritage of the region. 

• Admiring the Neo-Gothic Timber Architecture: Architecture enthusiasts can marvel at the church’s grand Neo-Gothic design, featuring high arched ceilings, large stained-glass windows, and massive supporting pillars made of local ironwood. Built entirely without modern construction machinery, the structural integrity of the timber frame has survived major earthquakes and tsunamis for well over a century, standing as a testament to historic craftsmanship. 

• Strolling Through the Historic Coastal Village Grounds: Located just meters away from the crashing waves of the Savu Sea, the church grounds offer a deeply tranquil, coastal atmosphere. Visitors can take a peaceful walk around the compound to view historic bells, explore the nearby royal cemetery of the Sikka kingdom, and interact with the friendly local community who continue to use the church for active Sunday worship. 

Additional Tips for Your Travel Content: 

• The Perfect Southern Route Stop: Inform your audience that Sikka Old Church is located about 30 kilometers south of Maumere. It makes for a fantastic cultural and coastal day-trip detour before heading further west toward Moni or Ende on the Trans-Flores highway. 

• Visiting and Photography Protocol: Remind travelers that this is a highly sacred, active house of worship. Visitors are expected to dress respectfully (covering shoulders and knees) and strictly refrain from taking flash photography or entering the altar area during active mass services and local weddings.