MAKNA SIMBOLIK ELEMEN ARSITEKTUR GEREJA : KAJIAN VISUAL PADA GEREJA GMIM SION TOMOHON
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51878/cendekia.v6i1.8878Keywords:
Arsitektur Sakral, Simbolisme Visual, Identitas BudayaAbstract
The GMIM Sion Church in Tomohon, a national cultural heritage site with neo-classical architecture, holds not only historical value but also a rich visual richness that shapes the identity of the sacred space. This research is motivated by the urgency of examining the visual elements of this historic church, which have not been systematically studied as constructs of symbolic meaning from an architectural perspective. Aiming to uncover the interaction between physical form and spiritual experience, this research employs a descriptive qualitative method with a case study approach. Data were collected through in-depth visual observation, architectural documentation, and interviews, then analyzed using a semiotic approach and existential space theory. Key findings indicate that visual elements such as the bell tower, symmetrical facade, tall window openings, and the integration of the local symbol of the manguni bird function beyond mere aesthetic ornamentation; these elements serve as signifiers that construct a sacred atmosphere and guide the congregation's spiritual orientation. It is concluded that the visual characteristics of the GMIM Sion Tomohon Church are a crucial symbolic communication medium for strengthening the cultural identity and theological experience of the community. Therefore, preservation efforts must include a deep understanding of the symbolic values ??inherent in the physical structure.
ABSTRAK
Gereja GMIM Sion Tomohon, sebagai cagar budaya nasional berarsitektur neo-klasik, tidak hanya menyimpan nilai historis tetapi juga kekayaan visual yang membentuk identitas ruang sakral. Penelitian ini didasari oleh urgensi untuk menelaah elemen visual gereja bersejarah yang selama ini belum banyak dikaji secara sistematis sebagai konstruksi makna simbolik dalam perspektif arsitektur. Bertujuan mengungkap interaksi antara bentuk fisik dan pengalaman spiritual, penelitian ini menerapkan metode kualitatif deskriptif dengan pendekatan studi kasus. Data dikumpulkan melalui observasi visual mendalam, dokumentasi arsitektural, dan wawancara, kemudian dianalisis menggunakan pendekatan semiotika dan teori ruang eksistensial. Temuan utama menunjukkan bahwa elemen visual seperti menara lonceng, fasad simetris, bukaan jendela tinggi, serta integrasi simbol lokal burung manguni, berfungsi lebih dari sekadar ornamen estetis; elemen-elemen tersebut hadir sebagai penanda (signifier) yang membangun atmosfer kesakralan dan mengarahkan orientasi spiritual jemaat. Disimpulkan bahwa karakteristik visual Gereja GMIM Sion Tomohon merupakan medium komunikasi simbolik yang krusial dalam memperkuat identitas kultural dan pengalaman teologis masyarakat, sehingga upaya pelestariannya harus mencakup pemahaman mendalam terhadap nilai-nilai simbolik yang melekat pada fisik bangunannya.
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