The lively city of Makassar is the capital of Indonesia's South Sulawesi province. This seaside city occupies a prominent position in Indonesian history and has been a bustling port for many centuries. Dotted with beautiful beaches and places of historic interest, Makassar also has many exotic islands in close proximity where you may like to book a Makassar hotel or other such accommodation. Further more, it is endowed with a fascinating culture and is known for its delicious Indonesian cuisine.
Crafts, pottery and weaving are what Makassarese are highly skilled at and they have also managed to preserve these traditions admirably, making some excellent souvenirs and decorative pieces.
There are number things to see and do in Makassar. The city acts as a gateway to famous Sulawesi attractions like Tana Toraja, Bunaken Marine Park, Takabonerate Marine Park and Wakatobi Marine Park. Check out Makassar tours available to see such Makassar attractions.
Beautiful coral reefs are found in abundance in the locality and there is good fishing apart from excellent opportunities for water sports like diving, snorkelling and swimming. Some of the islands nearby have lodging facilities and Makassar restaurants. To find the locations of hotels in Makassar take a look at our Makassar map.
Makassar, also known as Ujung Pandang, is the most important city on Indonesia's Sulawesi Island and is the capital of South Sulawesi province. A major port for many centuries, this historic city is located on the west coast of South Sulawesi and faces the Makassar Strait. For around three decades up to 1999, the city was officially known as Ujung Pandang - named after a fort that existed here before colonial times.
Now a large sprawling city, Makassar's hustle and bustle can be a bit off-putting for some people, but while you tour in Makassar you will find it is still an enchanting place with its schooners, Chinese lanterns and spice flavoured air; and brings up images of Bugi pirates and a quaint bygone era.
An important trading centre since early 16th century, Makassar had tolerant rulers who encouraged trade and cultural exchanges with other countries. Malays, Arabs, Indians, Javanese, Chinese, Europeans, and even the Yolŋu people of Northern Australia had trade ties with Makassar. Trade in spices particularly by Malays who set up base in Makassar attracted business from far off Arabian lands and Europe. Other commodities traded in included pearl, copra, rattan and timber, especially sandalwood and Makassar ebony which is highly valued. During the colonial period (the Dutch occupied the city in late 17th century), Makassar oil became a major export commodity. Fishing industry has always flourished in Makassar and Trepang or sea-cucumber fishing is a major occupation of the people.
A lot of seafarers and traders who came to Makassar chose to settle here so you will find beside Makassar hotels a mix of cultures that include Chinese, Javanese, Indian and Balinese. The dominant religion is Islam, though there are a sizable number of people who belong to the Christian faith. Hindus and Buddhists are also represented in smaller numbers. The diverse cultures have intermingled for a long time and have assimilated many local practices. Worshiping local deities and making offerings to spirits and local gods is a practise indulged in by all people irrespective of faith.
Makassar cannot boast of any great traditions in fine arts or music and it will not be far off the mark to say that Makassarese have traditionally lived austere lives. However if you take in the surroundings outside your Makassar hotel you may notice that dancing is quite popular and men and women actively participate in traditional dances with each having their respective roles and styles. Versifying and reciting folk tales and heroic exploits of legendary figures is another art form traditionally practised in Sulawesi. A few musical instruments mainly of Indian or Arabic origin like flutes, rebabs and gambus, are also used in Makassar.
Ever since colonial times, intricately designed pottery has been exported from here and are still in demand mostly as souvenirs and decorative pieces. The local women are wonderful weavers and have perfected their craft, working over long hours from their homes to make some of the very best silk, cotton fabrics and cloths. For more information on local handicrafts check out our Makassar shopping guide.
The ethnic Makassar people speak and write in the Makassar language which is a part of the Austronesian language family. Makassar language uses a distinctive script called Lontana (said to be derived from Brahmi script of India) which at one time was also used for sister languages of Sulawesi like Bugis and Mandar. Nowadays, the Roman alphabet is widely used to write Makassarese, though Lontana is not completely out of favour.
Mapanget Mega Wisata Tours & Travel was established in May 2003 and has earned a reputation as one of North Sulawesi's foremost inbound and outbound tour operators, distinctive for its personalised service and professionalism. We place a strong emphasis on introducing clients and guests to Indonesia's secret places. Our aim is to remain price competitive, offering professional and friendly service, and we will reply to all enquiries and reservations promptly.
