Upon stepping onto the grounds, we observed that the larger palace, Istana Tamalate, was closed. Consequently, our entire focus turned to Balla Lompoa (Makassar: Big House). Our experience was vastly enriched by the presence and guidance of Pak Jufri, a prominent custodian of the sultanate, who maintains strong ties with Malaysia and regularly travels there to share his deep historical knowledge, that completely transformed our understanding and appreciation of the museum. The palace is originally constructed in 1936 by 31st King of Gowa, it served as the official royal seat before being a museum in 1980. One of the largest 60 x 40m wooden stilt houses in the world, the entire building is constructed out of solid Bornean ironwood (Ulin) - impervious to decay, hardening over time when exposed to moisture and humidity. Elevated over 2m above the ground, the palace features a wide central wooden staircase leading up to a grand open hall, flanked by private royal chambers and a wide reception terrace. The multi-tiered gabled roof (Siri'), features 5 distinct layered tiers, a structural marker reserved strictly for royal palaces. Below the roofline, dozens of identical square wooden windows measuring 0.5 x 0.5m line the exterior walls, to allow continuous cross-breeze ventilation while historically serving as tactical lookout points during times of conflict. The raised stilts allow ground breezes to circulate freely beneath the floorboards, while high roof vents release trapped heat, keeping the vast interior hall naturally cool. Walking across the polished timber floorboards produces an auditory sense of nostalgia, as every step reverberates with a distinct hollow, creaking sound. Stepping deeper into the interior hall reveals the central heart of the museum: the ceremonial throne room and state stage. Framed by an ornate, lattice-carved golden wooden structure draped in rich red, gold and green silks, this raised platform is lined with ceremonial flags and flanked by large framed portraits of Gowa royalty. Resting upon the draped main table are brass tray sets covered with elaborate, lace-trimmed conical woven food covers known as Bosara, reflecting the traditional Bugis-Makassar etiquette of courtly hospitality. The most captivating aspect of the interior is the collection of sacred royal regalia and heirlooms, known collectively as Kalompoang. Prominently displayed inside a secure glass vitrine is the Salokoa, the pure 1.7Kg gold crown and studded with 250 precious gems. This conical, lotus-leaf-shaped crown dates back to the reign of the first king. Flanking the crown and enshrined across surrounding display cases are the kingdom's sacred weaponry and ceremonial jewelry including the Tatarapang, a magnificent royal keris crafted from ancient iron encased in a solid gold sheath encrusted with gemstones, originally gifted by the King of Demak, in 16th century. Beside it rest historic state swords such as the Sudanga, a curved heavy blade used in coronation ceremonies. The collection also features extraordinary gold regalia, incl the Tobo Kaluku—2 Kg heavy, multi-strand gold chains worn exclusively by ruling monarchs—alongside the Ponto Janga-Jangaya, solid gold armlets intricately shaped like coiled two-headed dragons, heavy gold earrings (Subang). Glass cases display VOC-era flintlock muskets, heavy brass swivel cannons known as Lela, and historical flags bearing the fighting rooster emblem - commemorates Sultan Hasanuddin, who was famously dubbed the "Rooster from the East," due to his fierce resistance against VOC. However, several artifact displays, interior lighting arrangements and humidity controls require professional, preservation efforts to protect these delicate manuscripts, ancient textiles and historical metals from environmental wear. Nevertheless, Balla Lompoa stands as a living cultural sanctuary where architectural craftsmanship, sacred heirlooms and ancestral honor intersect, brought vividly to life through the enduring dedication of its traditional keepers.

+3

It's a beautiful traditional house that used to be a palace. There were lots of invaluable historical items that were displayed with lack of effort to make it a tourist worthy museum, no proper lighting and no English. It needs professional help to run this museum properly and so safe the items so that future generations can still see it. Hopefully government will do something to help the palace fix the museum. It's still worth a visit if you are in Makasar

+3

Historical place but need more promotion. No entry fee but expect contribution

This museum is housed in a wonderful wooden structure that is representative of the traditional architecture of Old Gowa, the Palace of Tamalate. The museum should enlighten you on the history of the people of Gowa. The royal family and the nobles. The conflicts. There are collections of old coins, weapons, clothing, paintings, and literature. Should you want to dress up as a Gowa noble, you could rent clothes at the museum for a fabulous photo opportunity. There is a hall next to the Istana Lamate that is used for traditional ceremonies such as 'Cucian Badik'. In summary, this museum should be on your list of attractions to visit when in Makassar.

+3

There are plenty of students visiting during weekdays for school activities. They range from Junior High School to College students. This museum provides A clean environment and beautiful structures, it is recommended to come during the morning, 8 AM above. It won't open before 8 AM. They provide an extensive amount of information about the cultural items put for display. Weapons, Fashion, literature, currency, Cultural relics and crafts.

+3