Célèbes

Célèbes is the former name for the island now officially known as Sulawesi. This large island is one of the four Greater Sunda Islands of Indonesia, situated between Borneo and the Maluku Islands. Its distinctive shape, often described as resembling a K-shaped orchid, is a result of its geological history and volcanic activity. Célèbes is divided into several provinces, each with its own unique cultural and linguistic diversity.

The island has a rich and complex history, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. It was a significant trading post for centuries, attracting traders and settlers from various parts of Asia. European colonial powers, including the Dutch, established a presence on Célèbes, incorporating it into their colonial territories. The island witnessed significant events during World War II as well.

Sulawesi is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, both terrestrial and marine. Its mountainous interior is covered in dense rainforests, home to endemic species such as the anoa (dwarf buffalo), the babirusa (pig-deer), and various species of tarsiers and macaque monkeys. The surrounding waters teem with marine life, making it a popular destination for diving and snorkeling. The island's diverse ethnic groups, including the Bugis, Makassarese, and Toraja, have distinct traditions, languages, and social structures, contributing to the vibrant cultural tapestry of Indonesia.