Fort Rotterdam in Indonesia: tracing the historical footsteps of Makassar's architectural gem

​ME.SPOT - Nestled in the heart of Indonesia, there lies a captivating historical treasure, Fort Rotterdam, also known as Fort Turtle due to its striking resemblance to a turtle heading towards the sea. This remarkable fort, located in Makassar City in South Sulawesi, holds secrets and stories that invite exploration and intrigue. Join us on a journey to unveil the secrets of Fort Rotterdam and the rich history it guards.

- by Black

​In Indonesia the fort is also know as Fort Ujung Pandang. It's a historical building left over from the Gowa-Tallo kingdom. Despite being built centuries ago, the fort is still strong. Not just from the outside. If you go inside, you will be mesmerised. Once through the main gate, you will see old buildings that are still well-preserved and maintained.

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​There are 16 buildings with European-style architecture lining the inner walls of the fort. All the buildings use gable-shaped roofs with sharp slopes and have many doors and windows. A beautiful green garden sits in the centre of the fort.

​The existence of Fort Rotterdam can't be separated from the presence of the Dutch Trading Company (VOC) in Sulawesi. They came to trade at the crowded harbour of Ujung Pandang (old name for Makassar) owned by the Kingdom of Gowa. In a war between the VOC and Ujung Pandang all forts were demolished, except the Fort Ujung Pandang. The destroyed part of the fort was rebuilt by the VOC in Dutch architectural style and name of the fort was changed to Fort Rotterdam.

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​Fort Rotterdam functioned as the headquarters of the defense command, trading office, residence of high officials and centre of governments in the eastern region of the Indonesian archipelago. Even settlements grew up around the fort. Along with the expansion and new development that originated from the fort, Makassar grew into a city with a colonial layout.

​After several changes in function, the fort was in 1970 handed over to the Ministry of Education and Culture in Indonesia. Fort Rotterdam, which was designated as a Cultural Heritage Object in 2010, is now an interesting tourist attraction to visit.

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​Apart from a free tour of the fort, visitors can also visit the La Galigo Museum to learn about the history and culture of South Sulawesi from prehistoric to modern times. The museum has a large collection of fossilised rocks and ancient weapons belonging to the people of South Sulawesi. There is also a miniature Phinisi ship, which shows the seafaring culture of the South Sulawesi people.

​Surrounding the fort are art galleries, souvenir shops and stores selling books on the city's saga and heroic history. It's a complete historical tourist destination that adds to your knowledge. The location of the fort is easy to reach because it's located within the city of Makassar, precisely in front of the Makassar seaport.

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Fort Rotterdam is a heritage tourist destination that is worth visiting, every time I visit this place I like to capture the moment by taking pictures because of its charming building with Dutch architecture, besides spoiling the eyes, it can also add insight and knowledge of culture and heroic history in the city of Makassar.

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POST BY
Black
Black is just of those people who loves to write and take photos, and wants to share this with the world.
contributor, photographer and editor

EDIT TEXT
​Thierry Hanan Scheers

PHOTO
​Black

11 November 2023