Dompu: Architectural Culture at RTH Karijawa

A distinctive cultural landmark in Dompu is RTH Karijawa, with its iconic “Nggusu Waru” Tower. Its octagonal shape draws on a local Bima-Dompu architectural concept. This connects two specific themes for a trip: the geometry of a named structure and a link to local architectural culture. Anyone looking for more than just a destination when planning a trip, and who is also interested in distinctive design, will find a clear point of focus here. Its name, shape and cultural concept give the place a distinctive architectural focus.

An octagonal tower with a local architectural concept

The octagonal shape is easy to describe without specialist terminology: the tower has eight sides and also draws on the local Bima-Dompu architectural concept. This connection is what makes the structure interesting to travellers who see architecture as an expression of local design ideas. With “Nggusu Waru”, the form and cultural context can be considered together, rather than treating the tower as just another name in a travel itinerary. If you enjoy noticing design details, you can use the octagonal shape as a starting point: what role does geometry play in a structure, and how does it refer to a locally rooted concept? If you are travelling with children, this clear shape can also be a topic to discuss together. This makes a specialist subject accessible through a visual design idea, without requiring any prior knowledge.

RTH Karijawa and urban design

Alongside its architectural interest, there is also an urban-planning dimension: RTH Karijawa is also called “titik nol” and described as the centre of urban design. This shifts the focus beyond the individual tower to the role RTH plays in urban planning. For trip planning, these are two distinct points of interest at one place: the specific octagonal shape of Nggusu Waru and the designation of RTH in connection with Dompu’s urban design. Those more interested in architectural culture can start with the tower; those who find urban planning fascinating can take the “titik nol” designation as another point to consider. This makes Dompu tangible through specific names and meanings.

A dated moment in the history of RTH

Mayor Bambang Firdaus officially opened Ruang Terbuka Hijau (RTH) Karijawa in Kecamatan Dompu on 30 December 2025 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This makes a specific event part of the place’s history. The date adds a historical dimension to its architectural and urban-planning perspectives: RTH Karijawa is interesting not only for its form and designation, but also for its precisely dated opening day. For travellers who want to include architectural culture and urban design in their holiday plans, this connects a historical aspect with the place’s present-day themes.

Taking an interest in culture into account when planning your holiday

You can use this to shape your holiday around a personal interest without making your entire stay about a single topic. If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Dompu, consider whether architectural culture and urban design will be central to your trip or simply an added point of interest. If you are travelling with children, the octagonal shape can be a topic to discuss together; then choose the holiday apartment that suits you based on your overall travel plans. This makes RTH Karijawa a specific reason to include Dompu in your trip planning, while your accommodation remains part of a broader travel decision.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Masbagik, Sekongkang, Jonggat, Pujut, Bayan, Tanjung, Pemenang, Sekotong Tengah.

For the broader travel overview: West Nusa Tenggara.