Happy TravellerWelcome to Poso, the administrative capital of Poso Regency located in the central-southern coast of Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. This charming town is situated on the shore of the Gulf of Tomini, right in the central part of Sulawesi island. Poso is one of the biggest and the oldest towns in the province, with a total population of 47,477 in 2020. Its urban area consists of three districts, Poso Kota, North Poso Kota, and South Poso Kota. With its central location, Poso has become a popular stopover destination for travelers exploring Sulawesi.
Poso began to develop as a small port town located at the mouth of the Poso River at the end of the 19th century. Its presence was important for the Dutch to control the southern region of Tomini in the early days of their arrival. During colonial times, Poso was the administrative center of Landschap Poso, Onderafdeling Poso, and later Afdeling Poso. In the midst of World War II, the Japanese made Poso one of their military posts. Post-independence, Poso was chosen as the capital of the newly formed Central Sulawesi in 1948 before the capital was moved to Palu in 1951.
Poso is a town of many different ethnicities, religions, and backgrounds. People living in Poso are spread from the coastal area to the mountainous region, with the main sources of income being trade and services. The town is crossed by Trans-Sulawesi National Highway and served by Kasiguncu Airport, linking it to other cities in Sulawesi such as Palu and Makassar.
If you’re a nature lover, Poso is the perfect destination for you. The town features tropical rainforest, seashore gardens, and other natural scenery. Sintuwu Maroso Square is the main town square and located in central Poso. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, with many food stalls selling traditional Indonesian cuisine. Rumah Katu Marine Park is a water park located 10 km from the center of Poso. It’s a great place to spend a day with your family and friends, enjoying the sun, sea, and sand.
Poso also has a rich cultural heritage. Modero is a well-known traditional dance which is performed during the celebration of rice harvesting (Padungku), usually in the evenings. If you’re lucky enough to be in Poso during Padungku, you’ll get to witness this beautiful dance that has been passed down from generation to generation.
In conclusion, Poso is a hidden gem in Central Sulawesi that’s waiting to be discovered. With its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and mouthwatering local cuisine, Poso has something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or just looking for a stopover destination, Poso is definitely worth a visit.
