Remnants of the former kingdom of Gowa, 7km from town on the southeastern outskirts of Makassar, include Makam Sultan Hasanuddin , which memorialises the ruler of Gowa from the mid-17th century. Outside the tomb compound is the Pelantikan Stone , on which the kings of Gowa were crowned.
Benteng Sungguminasa , a fort that was once the seat of the sultan of Gowa, is 5km further south at Sungguminasa. The former royal residence, now known as Museum Balla Lompoa , houses a collection of artefacts, including gifts from the indigenous Australians of Elcho Island, who have a history of trade with the Bugis. Although the royal regalia can be seen only on request, the wooden Bugis-style palace itself is the real attraction.
To go to Old Gowa and Sungguminasa, take a pete-pete marked ‘S Minasa’ from Makassar Mall to the turn-off for the 1km walk to the tomb. A becak (bicycle-rickshaw) from there to the fort should cost around 12,000Rp. Another becak will take you to Mallengkeri Terminal, from where pete-pete return to central Makassar; the pete-pete should cost about 6000Rp.
