Makassar

First settled by the Portuguese in the 16th century, Makassar grew rapidly from its early origins as a spice trading centre to become one of Southeast Asia's most important cities and the dominant trading centre of Eastern Indonesia, a position it still holds today.

With its multicultural and multi-religious atmosphere, tolerant attitudes and 'open-for-all' approach to business and trade, Makassar remains a major crossroads for shipping and trade, and a vibrant home to over one million people.