Fort Kalamata

Fort Kalamata is a Portuguese coastal fortification in Ternate City with walls standing 3 meters (10 feet) high and four pointed bastions positioned at each cardinal direction. The defensive layout was designed to control the waters surrounding the island.

Portuguese forces built this fortress in 1540 to control the spice trade, particularly cloves, which were valuable commodities of the era. Dutch forces took control of it in 1610 as they expanded their colonial presence in the region.

The fort took its name from Prince Kalamata, the brother of Sultan Madarsyah, replacing the original Portuguese name Santa Lucia. This change reflects how local rulers left their mark on structures built by foreign powers.

The site offers clear views toward Tidore Island and Mount Gamalama from several vantage points within the structure. Access is available through Jeruk Street in South Ternate, making it straightforward for visitors to locate and reach the fort.

Four gun emplacements are positioned at each cardinal point, each fitted with specialized openings designed specifically for firing on approaching vessels. These defensive features reveal the military engineering that colonial powers deployed to protect their trading interests.