Otanaha Fort, an iconic cultural heritage in Gorontalo, offers a fascinating and story-filled historical tourism experience.
Otanaha Fort is one of the cultural heritages that is an icon of historical tourism in Gorontalo. Standing firmly on the Dembe I hills, Kota Barat District, this fort not only offers beautiful views of Lake Limboto, but also holds an interesting historical story.
With its strong historical background and structural uniqueness, Otanaha Fort is a favorite destination for tourists visiting Gorontalo.
This fort was built in the 15th century and is a silent witness to the struggles of the Gorontalo people in the past. If you plan to visit Gorontalo, Otanaha Fort should be one of the tourist destinations that should not be missed.
Here is a more complete review of the history, attractions, and all the interesting things you can find at Otanaha Fort.
Knowing the History of Fort Otanaha
Otanaha Fort has a long history dating back to the 15th century. For those exploring Things to do in Gorontalo, visiting this historic site is a must. The fort was built as a form of defense against enemy attacks, especially from the threat of pirates and other disturbances.
Based on historical records, it was founded by King Ilato with the help of Portuguese sailors who stopped in Gorontalo due to bad weather and lack of food supplies.
Interestingly, this fort was built with unusual building materials. A mixture of limestone, sand and Maleo bird egg white is used as an adhesive.
The Maleo bird is an endemic bird of Sulawesi which is famous for its large and strong eggs. This adds to the uniqueness of Otanaha Fort, because the sturdy structure of the building has survived to this day.
There are three forts in this area, namely Otanaha Fort, Otahiya, and Ulupahu, each of which has an important role in the defense system. The name Otanaha is taken from the name of King Ilato’s son, Naha, who was an important figure in the history of this fort.
The Attraction of Otanaha Fort
Otanaha Fortress not only presents an interesting history, but also various other attractions that make it a very potential tourist spot in Gorontalo. Here are some of the main attractions of Otanaha Fortress:
1. Unique Fort Structure
Unlike other forts in Indonesia which are generally located on the coast, Otanaha Fort is built on hills. This fort is located at a height, right above Lake Limboto, providing an extraordinary panoramic view.
From the top of the fort, visitors can see the beauty of the vast Lake Limboto, and if you come at dusk, you can enjoy a spectacular sunset view.
2. See Wildlife
Apart from being a historical site, the Otanaha Fort area is also a habitat for various types of birds and wildlife. Around the fort, you can find typical Indonesian birds such as the Kehicap Ranting, Cucak Kutilang, and Raja Udang.
Not only that, at certain times, you can also see tarsiers, one of the smallest primates in the world, which live in this area.
3. Challenging Trekking Area
For those of you who like to exercise and climb, Otanaha Fort also offers an interesting trekking area. To reach the main fort, you have to climb 351 steps.
But don’t worry, because along the way there are four stopping points that you can use to rest. From these points, you can also enjoy the beautiful natural scenery and fresh air .
4. Close to other tourist destinations
The strategic location of Otanaha Fort makes it close to several other interesting tourist destinations.
After visiting the fort, you can continue your journey to Bukit Layang or Jurenai Beach which are located not far from the fort. This makes your travel more efficient and enjoyable.
Location and Access to Otanaha Fort
Otanaha Fort is located in Dembe I Village, West City District, Gorontalo, approximately 9 kilometers from the center of Gorontalo City.
If you come from Jalaluddin Airport, the journey to the fort takes about 30 minutes by private vehicle. You can also rent a bentor (motorized rickshaw) or use public transportation to reach the location.
To reach the fort, you can choose to climb the 351 steps provided, or use a vehicle to the parking area located below the main fort. This journey is a bit challenging, but the view you will get at the top of the fort is well worth the effort.
The Beauty of Otanaha Fort
Apart from its historical appeal and unique building materials, Otanaha Fort also offers extraordinary natural beauty. This fort is surrounded by green hills which give a beautiful and cool impression.
From the top of the fort, you can see a beautiful panorama of Lake Limboto which stretches out at the foot of the hill.
This beauty is what makes Otanaha Fort a favorite place for photographers and nature photography enthusiasts. Every corner of this fort provides an opportunity to capture the best moments, especially when the sun sets in the western horizon.
Tips for Visiting Otanaha Fort
To make your trip to Otanaha Fort more comfortable and enjoyable, here are some tips you can apply:
- Wear comfortable clothes, especially if you plan to climb the stairs to the fort.
- Bring drinking water to keep your body hydrated during the trip.
- If you want to see wild animals such as tarsiers, come in the afternoon because these animals are usually active at that time.
- Don’t forget to bring a quality camera or cellphone to capture the beautiful views this fort has to offer.
With its rich history, beautiful scenery, and unique attractions, Otanaha Fort is a must-visit tourist destination when in Gorontalo.
For those interested in Tourist Attractions in Kendari, exploring nearby historical sites can provide a similarly enriching experience. Strategically located and offering a variety of activities, Otanaha Fort offers both historical insight and stunning natural beauty.
