Stone Chair of King Siallagan Guide
Sit in Judgement: The Stone Chair of King Siallagan Guide
Step back in time and witness a chilling piece of Batak history at the Stone Chair of King Siallagan in Ambarita village, Samosir Island, North Sumatra, Indonesia. This ancient stone arrangement served as the royal court for the Siallagan kings, where important decisions were made, and justice was dispensed – often with brutal consequences. The site offers a fascinating, albeit somber, glimpse into the traditions and power structures of the Batak people. The Stone Chair dates back several centuries, representing the center of power for the Siallagan kingdom. The chairs themselves are carved from stone and arranged in a circle, with the king's chair being the most prominent. Here, the king would preside over trials, hear disputes, and pronounce judgments. The most infamous aspect of the site is its connection to cannibalism. Those found guilty of serious crimes were sometimes executed and their flesh consumed as a ritualistic act, believed to imbue the king and his warriors with the strength and courage of the condemned. Today, visitors can explore the Stone Chair complex, imagining the dramatic scenes that once unfolded here. Local guides offer detailed explanations of the site's history and the customs of the Siallagan people. You can sit on the stone chairs (though perhaps with a slight shiver!) and contemplate the weight of history. The surrounding village of Ambarita also offers opportunities to learn about Batak culture, with traditional houses and craft shops. While not directly related to the Stone Chair, Batak cuisine is known for its bold flavors and use of spices. Try "Saksang" (pork cooked in pig's blood) or "Arsik" (fish cooked in a yellow spice paste) for a taste of local culinary traditions.
Transportation
The Stone Chair of King Siallagan is located in Ambarita village on Samosir Island. From Tomok, the main ferry port on Samosir, you can hire a motorbike (ojek) or a car with a driver to reach Ambarita. Public buses (locally known as 'angkot') also operate between Tomok and Ambarita, but they may be infrequent.