Toponym investigation as introduction to the local value in Cirebon City

Abstract

Places name in Cirebon City is strongly influenced by geographical, biological, socio-historical elements, folklore, and local figure. Toponyms in Cirebon City have local values that be used as learning resources. This article aimed to describe an investigative process carried out by students and local value study based on Cirebon City toponym. The study was conducted in four sub-districts, namely Kejaksan, Pekalipan, Lemahwungkuk, and Harjamukti. There was a total of 50 location names. The investigation was carried out by conducting in-depth interviews with various community leaders, elders, keratin (palace) guides, and kuncen (caretaker). Investigation result exhibited that Cirebon toponym has a unique background and strongly influenced by geographical, biological and socio-historical, local figure. It is specifically influenced by the development of Islamic civilization through the Cirebon Sultanate and Sunan Gunung Djati. Therefore the toponymy in Cirebon City has the potential to be used as an introduction to essential local values.