Blenduk Church, officially known as GPIB Immanuel, is one of the oldest and most iconic buildings in Semarang. Built in 1753 by the Dutch Protestant community, the church was originally a traditional Javanese-style stilt house. In 1894–1895, architects H.P.A. de Wilde and W. Westmaas significantly renovated the structure, adding two towers and a large dome—the latter inspiring the name “Blenduk,” derived from the Javanese word mblenduk, meaning bulging or protruding.
The church features Neo-Classical architecture with an octagonal layout, stained glass windows, soaring pillars, and a Baroque organ over 200 years old. As part of the Old Town district, often referred to as “Little Netherlands,” Blenduk Church is not only a house of worship but also a historical tourism landmark. Still active for Sunday services, the church is a symbol of Semarang's religious diversity and enduring spirit of tolerance.
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