Acehnese Tombstones: Symbolization of Status during the Peak of Islamic Civilization in South Sulawesi

DOI

10.2991/978-2-38476-613-0_2How to use a DOI?

Abstract

Burial culture in the Indonesian archipelago exhibits a wide variety of forms that reflect the historical and cultural background of different periods, one of which is represented by the use of tombstones. In Indonesia, tombstones are classified into several types as outlined by Hasan Muarif Ambary, namely Acehnese tombstones, Demak-Troloyo tombstones, Bugis tombstones, and Ternate–Tidore tombstones. Over time, these types have been found widely distributed across the archipelago, with Acehnese tombstones being among the most extensively dispersed throughout Indonesia. The use of Acehnese tombstones by various communities cannot be separated from the influence of the Aceh Sultanate, which indirectly introduced these tombstones as a form of burial culture specifically associated with certain social groups. South Sulawesi is one of the regions influenced by the spread of Acehnese tombstones. This phenomenon is closely related to historical connections between the Aceh Darussalam Sultanate and the kingdoms of South Sulawesi. As a result, several types of Acehnese tombstones have been identified in South Sulawesi, particularly on the graves of individuals who held strong political influence or noble status. Consequently, the use of Acehnese tombstones is often interpreted as a representation of the social status of the deceased. This interpretation is supported by the artistic qualities, rich decorative motifs, symbolic meanings, and production processes of Acehnese tombstones, which made them a prestigious cultural product favored by certain groups, especially during the height of Islamic civilization in the Indonesian archipelago.

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© 2026 The Author(s)

Open Access

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TY  - CONF
AU  - Nur Aziza Nasir
AU  - Yadi Mulyadi
AU  - Erwin Mansyur Ugu Saraka
PY  - 2026
DA  - 2026/09/04
TI  - Acehnese Tombstones: Symbolization of Status during the Peak of Islamic Civilization in South Sulawesi
BT  - Proceedings of the 6th International Conference on Linguistics and Cultural Studies (ICLC-6 2025)
PB  - Atlantis Press
SP  - 4
EP  - 15
SN  - 2352-5398
UR  - https://doi.org/10.2991/978-2-38476-613-0_2
DO  - 10.2991/978-2-38476-613-0_2
ID  - Nasir2026
ER  -