Bantaeng

According to contemporary accounts, Bonthain was an area on Sulawesi's south coast, flanked by the Tino River to the west, the Bonthain mountain to the north and the Kalekongang River to the south. Bonthain traditionally allied itself with Macassar and was ruled by kings. The area was surrounded by rich rice paddies. Thanks to its situation on a big bay, Bonthain was highly suited as a mooring for vessels belonging to neighbouring peoples. VOC records indicate that the populations of Bonthain, Boele and Bera were extremely peaceable in their relations with the Company. The Company appointed a resident to manage the outpost. During the 18th century the outpost grew steadily in size. By 1790 at least 193 VOC employees were stationed in Bonthain and Boelecomba, which lay in a more easterly direction.