The Factors Affecting the Morphology of Kota Lama Tangerang

Abstract

Morphological changes in old town areas often occur due to a lack of sensitivity to the importance of preserving historical traces, as seen in Kota Lama Tangerang. This area has undergone significant transformation influenced by ancient trade factors, political power, and inter-ethnic interaction. This study aims to analyze the development and morphological changes of Kota Lama Tangerang by identifying city elements that are still consistent, have changed, or even disappeared. Using a post-positivist approach with qualitative descriptive methods, this research relies on field observations, interviews with stakeholders, historical documentation, and digital mapping. The observation units include the villages of Sukarasa, Sukasari, Sukaasih, and Buaran Indah. The results show that significant changes have occurred in 65% of the road network and 30% of the land plots, while 55% of the buildings have survived. These findings show that the development of the city was influenced by the acculturation of Chinese, Sundanese, Arabic, Betawi, and Dutch colonial cultures, as well as historical events such as the construction of Fort Makassar, the founding of Boen Tek Bio, and VOC policies. This research implies the importance of more accurate historical data-based area delineation and the active involvement of the government, private sector, and community in urban planning based on historical values. The results of this study are expected to be a reference for policy making on the preservation and revitalization of the Kota Lama Tangerang area as an integral part of the national cultural heritage.