Surakarta, or Solo, is a city in Central Java,
Indonesia. Founded in 1745 by Pakubuwono II, it was once the capital of the
Mataram Sultanate before it split into two royal courts, the Surakarta Sunanate
and the Yogyakarta Sultanate. Located along the Bengawan Solo River, the city
is well known for its strong Javanese roots, especially in batik, wayang
(shadow puppetry), traditional music, and dance. Surakarta also played a role
in Indonesia’s journey to independence, once becoming a base for early
nationalist activities.
