Bau Bau

Bau-Bau is a city on the southwestern coast of Buton Island, where mountainous landscapes blend with coastal areas and waterways. The city spreads across varied terrain between hills and mountain regions.

The city emerged as the center of the Kingdom of Buton and became a sultanate capital in 1541 when Lakilaponto took the title Murhum Kaimuddin. This transition marked a shift in political authority across the region.

The Buton Palace Fort contains traditional houses, an ancient mosque, and military artifacts that represent the heritage of the former Butonese sultanate.

Visitors can reach the city best through Kendari, from which connections lead onward to Bau-Bau. Good footwear is recommended since the hilly landscape invites exploration.

The Buton Palace Fort bears witness to an extended period of rule and preserves traditional dwellings as well as an ancient sanctuary. This place shows how people lived and worshipped across the centuries.

Location: Southeast Sulawesi

Inception: October 17, 1541

Elevation above the sea: 15 m

Shares border with: Buton, South Buton

Website: https://portal.baubaukota.go.id

GPS coordinates: -5.46222,122.60583

Latest update: December 6, 2025 22:00