Banda Islands Indonesia never lost its magnificent sight through the nutmeg, which is full of historical value. In the past, nutmeg was not as simple as we see today through the processed products, such as nutmeg ice, candied nutmeg, nutmeg chips, syrup, etc. Both Banda and nutmeg became the spotlights and destinations that triggered various nations to fight against each other for the sake of domination. It all contributed to the history of the Banda Islands Indonesia until today. 

Nutmeg took a significant role in the history of various nations in the world, including Banda Islands Indonesia as the producer. Banda became the one and only nutmeg producer for hundreds of years in the past. This spice attracted both local and foreign traders to come. Therefore, Banda served as a place for various people from different religions, languages, and cultures to meet, exchange, and merge. 

In the 14th century, nutmeg was essential, especially for Europeans. Nutmeg was believed to be the cure for the deadly plague at the time. It is not surprising that the Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, and English spent decades, sending the most powerful fleets and thousands of the best sailors to reach Banda. Until the era of the Dutch conquest, nutmeg trees grew in almost every inch of the land.

Starting its journey from Banda Islands Indonesia as the commencement, nutmeg has spread and been served in many forms. It has become a mixture of foods on different continents. Further, nutmeg has become the pulse of life for Banda and its people, creating the history of Banda as a significant point in the world’s spice trade. More than just as a producer, Banda was a destination for the surrounding traders and other nations to create a route and leave cultural traces, that are connected in a trading route, that we now call the Spice Routes. 

The glory of nutmeg in the past was indeed wondrous. So, how is nutmeg today? How did the golden fruit survive to live and support the life of the Bandanese? 

Check out our video Buah Surga yang Mendunia (A Globetrotter, the Fruit of Paradise). Enjoy!