Makassar, also known as Ujung Pandang, is a vibrant and historic city that serves as the gateway to South Sulawesi. As a former center of the Gowa Sultanate and a strategic port for trade and conquest, Makassar offers a rich cultural heritage and a diverse culinary scene. You can explore the impressive Fort Rotterdam, a Dutch fortress that houses a museum and a library, or visit the majestic Makassar Great Mosque, which seems to float on the water. For a glimpse of the local life, head to the Paotere Harbor, where you can watch the colorful fishing boats and the bustling market. Makassar is also a convenient base for exploring the natural wonders of South Sulawesi, such as the karst landscapes, the coral reefs, and the Toraja culture.