Construction of Ratu Kalinyamat as an Icon of Jepara Regency

Abstract

Jepara Regency is one of the areas on the north coast of Java that continues to develop with a rich culture. Jepara Regency is known as a famous carving city, both in Central Java and Indonesia. Jepara was an important area at the beginning of the spread of Islam in medieval Java, associated with the Sultanate of Demak [1]. In the past, Jepara was an important port on Muria Island during the Demak Sultanate. Bandar Jepara and Ratu Kalinyamat are a representation of Jepara Regency about the past which is the builder of its collective memory. The existence by building a collective memory of the local government and the people of Jepara Regency is very important. This research uses ethnographic method. This research shows that there are three important things related to the construction of Ratu Kalinyamat as an icon of Jepara Regency. First, Ratu Kalinyamat is an intelligent and decisive female leader. Second, the construction of the collective memory of the people of Jepara Regency is closely related to the existence of Ratu Kalinyamat. Third, the material culture of Ratu Kalinyamat can still be witnessed today.