Explore various historical tours of South Sulawesi, from Fort Rotterdam to the Tomb of Prince Diponegoro, to trace the inspiring history trail.
South Sulawesi is one of the provinces in Indonesia that is rich in history and culture. From the glory days of local kingdoms to the struggle for independence, South Sulawesi holds many historical sites that bear witness to the nation’s journey.
Here are 10 historical tourist destinations in South Sulawesi that you must visit to better understand the cultural roots and struggles in this region.
1. Fort Rotterdam: Symbol of the Glory of the Gowa-Tallo Kingdom
Fort Rotterdam is a historical icon of South Sulawesi that should not be missed. Built in 1545 by the 9th King of Gowa, I Manrigau Daeng Bonto Karaeng Lakiung Tumapa’risi’ Kallonna, this fort was originally the defense headquarters of the Gowa-Tallo Kingdom.
Today, Fort Rotterdam is one of the famous historical tourist destinations, complete with a museum displaying historical artifacts, ancient manuscripts, and other cultural objects.
The fort’s distinctive architecture with a blend of European and local styles gives a stunning, majestic impression. This place is also often a location for historical education for local and foreign visitors.
2. Leang-Leang Prehistoric Park: Traces of Ancient Life
Located in Maros, Leang-Leang Prehistoric Park is a destination that shows traces of ancient human life. On the walls of caves in this area, there are paintings of hands and deer that are estimated to be thousands of years old.
Apart from its historical value, Leang-Leang Prehistoric Park offers stunning natural scenery with towering karst rocks. This place is also suitable as an educational tourism destination for families, providing insight into prehistoric life as well as the natural beauty of South Sulawesi.
3. Tampang Allo Cave: Tombs of the Toraja Kings
Tampang Allo Cave, located in Tana Toraja, is a unique historical destination. This cave was the burial place of Torajan kings and nobles in the 16th century. Inside the cave, you will find erong (coffins) shaped like buffalo, pigs, or boats, which are symbols of Torajan social status.
In addition, this cave also contains tau-tau (wooden statues) that represent the spirits of ancestors, as well as skulls and bones that are still well-preserved to this day. Tampang Allo Cave not only offers a unique experience, but also provides insight into the meaningful Torajan funeral traditions.
4. Makassar City Museum: Tracing the Development of the City
Inaugurated in 2000, the Makassar City Museum is located in the former City Hall Building which has high historical value. This museum consists of two floors displaying various interesting collections, ranging from photographs of the development of Makassar, ancient currency, to archaeological artifacts.
On the second floor, visitors can see the work desk used by the Mayor of Ujung Pandang in the past. This museum is an ideal place to learn about the history and culture of Makassar City, both in terms of administration and the social life of its people.
5. Paotere Harbor: Heritage of the Gowa-Tallo Kingdom
Paotere Port is one of the oldest ports in Indonesia, built in the 14th century by the Gowa-Tallo Kingdom. This port was once one of the largest ports in Southeast Asia and was a silent witness to the legendary journeys of the Bugis pinisi ships.
Until now, Paotere Port is still operating and is a place for various types of traditional ships to dock. For visitors, this port offers a unique and impressive view, as well as a reminder of the maritime glory of the Gowa-Tallo Kingdom.
6. Kusuma Bangsa Heroes’ Cemetery: Honoring the Services of Heroes
Located in the center of Makassar City, Kusuma Bangsa Heroes Cemetery is the resting place of national heroes who died in the struggle against the colonialists. This place has a solemn atmosphere, inviting visitors to reflect on the spirit of nationalism and heroic values.
Apart from being a place of pilgrimage, this park is also often used for ceremonies to commemorate national holidays, making it a symbol of respect for the freedom fighters.
7. Balla Lompoa Museum: Cultural Traces of the Gowa Kingdom
Balla Lompoa Museum is a historical tourist destination that offers an in-depth experience of the life of the Gowa Kingdom. This museum is a replica of a traditional royal house, which once functioned as a center of government and court.
The collection in this museum includes traditional weapons, jewelry, and other ancient objects that provide an insight into social and political life in the past. Balla Lompoa Museum is an ideal place to learn about the culture and history of the Gowa Kingdom.
8. Tomb of Sultan Hasanuddin: Tribute to the National Hero
The tomb of Sultan Hasanuddin, located in the Somba Opu Fort complex, is the final resting place of the last ruler of the Gowa Kingdom. Sultan Hasanuddin was known as the “Rooster of the East” for his bravery in fighting the Dutch colonialists.
This tomb is an important pilgrimage site, not only for local people but also for tourists who want to remember the struggle of the national hero. Its existence reminds us of the importance of maintaining the freedom and sovereignty of the nation.
9. Somba Opu Fort: The Center of the Glory of the Gowa Kingdom
Somba Opu Fort is a symbol of the glory of the Gowa Kingdom in the 16th century. Apart from being a defensive fortress, this place also functioned as an administrative center and residence for the nobility.
Today, Somba Opu Fort has been converted into a museum displaying various historical artifacts, including traditional weapons, traditional clothing, and household objects. This place provides deep insight into the lives of the Makassar people in the past.
10. Prince Diponegoro’s Tomb: Traces of the Hero’s Struggle
The tomb of Prince Diponegoro in Makassar is the final resting place of a central figure in the Diponegoro War against Dutch colonialism. After being captured, Prince Diponegoro was exiled to Makassar until the end of his life.
This tomb is an important pilgrimage site and reminds us of the spirit of the struggle to maintain independence. For visitors, this place is a reminder of the importance of unity and courage in the face of oppression.
South Sulawesi holds invaluable historical riches, from the time of local kingdoms to the struggle for independence.
By visiting the 10 historical tourist destinations above, you will not only enjoy the beauty of the architecture and landscape, but also enrich your insight into the journey of this nation. Let’s explore and appreciate the cultural and historical values inherited from our ancestors in South Sulawesi.
