Manado history

The city of Manado, the capital of the North Sulawesi province, possesses a rich history closely tied to the colonial era and the global spice trade. Its establishment is the result of a strategic location and the interest of European powers in the region's wealth.

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of Manado as a significant settlement begins in the 17th century. Although European traders, particularly the Portuguese and Spanish, appeared in the region as early as the 16th century to purchase spices, it was the Dutch who laid the foundation for the modern city. In 1658, the Dutch East India Company built a new fortification, named Fort Amsterdam, on the site of an existing Spanish fort. This event became the starting point for Manado's development as an administrative and trading centre under Dutch control.

Key Factors of Formation

The development of the city was determined by several key factors:

• Geographical Location: Situated on the shores of a bay in the Celebes Sea, Manado became a convenient port for ships travelling to the "Spice Islands" (the Moluccas).
• Spice Trade: In the 17th–19th centuries, Manado was one of the key centres for the global export of cloves, nutmeg, and other valuable spices, which at that time were worth their weight in gold in Europe.
• Political Influence: Having entrenched themselves in Manado, the Dutch gained control over trade and gradually extended their influence throughout the Minahasa region, making the city their main outpost in northern Sulawesi.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

With the arrival of the Dutch in Manado and its surroundings, the active spread of Christianity began. This process had a profound impact on the culture of the local population, distinguishing it from the predominantly Muslim regions of Indonesia. The city's economy was entirely oriented towards exports: in addition to spices, coffee, copra, and precious woods were shipped from here. Formed as a melting pot of local, European, and Asian cultures, Manado acquired its unique character from an early age, which is still evident today.

Key Dates in the History of Manado

The history of Manado is saturated with events reflecting its strategic importance in the spice trade, its colonial past, and its role in the formation of modern Indonesia. Below are the main milestones in the city's development.

• 1623 — Considered the founding year of the settlement that subsequently became the city of Manado.
• 1658 — The Dutch East India Company builds Fort Amsterdam, strengthening its influence in the region and making Manado a key centre of trade.
• 1830 — Dutch authorities exile the Javanese Prince Diponegoro, a leader of the rebellion against colonial rule, to Manado.
• 1919 — The Apostolic Prefecture of Sulawesi is established in the city, highlighting Manado's growing role as a religious centre.
• 1942 (January 11-13) — During World War II, the Battle of Manado takes place, resulting in the city being captured by Japanese troops; during this operation, Japan used airborne paratroopers for the first time in its history.
• 1958 — The city is subjected to bombing by the central government during the suppression of the regional "Permesta" rebellion.
• 1961 — The status of the local Catholic administrative unit is raised to the Diocese of Manado.

Stages of Formation and Transformation

The development of Manado is a journey from a small colonial fortification to a modern metropolis that has become the gateway to North Sulawesi. Key events in the city's history have defined its unique economic and architectural appearance.

• Construction of Fort Amsterdam (1658). The erection of a stone fortress by the Dutch East India Company became the starting point of urban planning. The fort not only ensured the safety of the spice trade but also served as the core around which the street network of the future city began to form.
• Christianisation of the Region (19th Century). The large-scale activity of missionaries led to deep cultural changes. Unlike most regions of Indonesia, a stable Christian tradition formed here, which is reflected in the architecture (an abundance of churches) and a European vector in education and daily life.
• Opening of the Port to International Trade (Mid-19th Century). The decision of the colonial authorities to open the harbour to foreign vessels caused an economic boom. The influx of Chinese and Arab traders turned the city into a cosmopolitan centre, enriching the local culture and cuisine.
• Provincial Capital Status (1964). The separation of North Sulawesi into a distinct province with Manado as its centre gave a powerful impulse to administrative development. This led to the expansion of the state apparatus, the construction of government buildings, and the improvement of urban infrastructure.
• Development of the Boulevard Area (1990s – 2000s). A grand land reclamation project along the coast (Jalan Piere Tendean) radically changed the economic geography of the city. The new district became a centre of modern trade with malls and hotels, shifting business activity towards the sea.
• Global Recognition of Bunaken Park (1991). The creation of the national marine park reoriented the city's economy towards international tourism. This event secured the region's status as a world diving capital and attracted foreign investment in the hospitality sector.
• Construction of the Soekarno Bridge (2015). The opening of the cable-stayed bridge across the harbour became an important milestone in the modernisation of the transport system. The structure not only relieved traffic congestion but also became a new visual symbol of the city, highlighting its aspiration towards the future.

The architectural appearance of Manado represents a blend of colonial heritage and modern trends, reflecting the city's rich history as an important commercial and cultural hub. Urban development, which began with the arrival of Europeans, is still noticeable in the layout of the central districts and in the preserved historical buildings.

Colonial Influence (17th-20th Centuries)

The foundation of Manado's urban planning was the construction of Fort "Amsterdam" by the Dutch in 1658, around which the city began to grow. This period is characterised by the appearance of buildings in European styles, adapted to the tropical climate. Key features of colonial architecture included high ceilings, large windows, and verandas for better ventilation. Although many structures were lost during World War II and subsequent conflicts, individual examples have survived. A significant example is the Gereja Sentrum, originally built by the first Dutch missionaries and one of the oldest churches in the region.

Religious and Cultural Eclecticism

Manado has historically been a "melting pot" of cultures, which is reflected in its architecture. Alongside numerous Christian churches designed in various styles from classicism to modernism, Chinese temples constitute an important part of the urban landscape. The most famous of them is Ban Hin Kiong, built in the 19th century. This temple is a striking example of traditional Chinese temple architecture and remains an active spiritual centre for the local Chinese community.

Modern Development (20th-21st Centuries)

Post-war reconstruction and the growth of tourism in the late 20th century spurred a new stage of urban planning. Modern hotels, shopping centres, and public spaces appeared in the city. One of the most recognisable modern symbols of Manado has become the monumental statue "Christ Blessing" (Monumen Yesus Memberkati), one of the tallest statues of Jesus in Asia. Infrastructure development, such as the construction of the Soekarno Bridge and the modernisation of the waterfront, has also changed the face of the city, making it more modern and convenient for residents and tourists.

Notable Figures Associated with Manado

The city of Manado and the Minahasa region have gifted Indonesia and the world with many outstanding figures in politics, sports, and the arts. These individuals have made a significant contribution to the development of the country and brought fame to their homeland on the national and international stage.

Sam Ratulangi (1890–1949)

Role/Profession: Politician, journalist, educator, National Hero of Indonesia.

Significance: One of the key figures in the struggle for Indonesia's independence. Sam Ratulangi was the first governor of Sulawesi and a prominent thinker whose motto "Sitou Timou Tumou Tou" ("Humans live to humanise or educate others") became the philosophy of the Minahasa people. The international airport in Manado is named after him, and his portrait is featured on the Indonesian 20,000 rupiah banknote.

Alexander Andries Maramis (1897–1977)

Role/Profession: Politician, lawyer, diplomat, National Hero of Indonesia.

Significance: A native of Manado, A. A. Maramis was one of the founding fathers of Indonesia and a member of the committee that drafted the country's constitution. He repeatedly held the post of Minister of Finance in the early years of independence and later served as ambassador to several countries, including the Philippines, West Germany, and the USSR.

Liliyana Natsir (born 1985)

Role/Profession: Professional badminton player.

Significance: Born in Manado, she is one of the most decorated athletes in the history of Indonesian badminton. Liliyana is a 2016 Olympic champion, a silver medallist at the 2008 Olympic Games, and a four-time world champion in mixed doubles. Her achievements have made her a sports icon in Indonesia.

Pierre Tendean (1939–1965)

Role/Profession: Military officer, National Hero of Indonesia.

Significance: Although Pierre Tendean was born in Jakarta, his father hailed from the Minahasa region. He became one of the most famous victims of the events of September 30, 1965, when he was mistakenly captured and killed instead of General Nasution, whom he served as an aide-de-camp. His self-sacrifice and devotion to duty made him a symbol of heroism.

Angelina "Angel" Karamoy (born 1987)

Role/Profession: Actress, singer, TV presenter.

Significance: Angel Karamoy, born in Manado, is a popular figure in the Indonesian entertainment industry. She began her career at a young age and has starred in numerous series (sinetrons) and films, becoming a recognisable face on national television.

Jolene Marie Cholock-Rotinsulu (born 1996)

Role/Profession: Model, actress, titleholder of "Miss International Indonesia 2019".

Significance: Representing the province of North Sulawesi, Jolene entered the top 8 at the international "Miss International 2019" pageant. She is actively involved in social activities, advocating for the rights of people with disabilities and environmental initiatives.