Formerly used as a Dutch stronghold, and cultural center of the Minahasa ethnic group, Manado was, for a long time, a prosperous city trading with neighboring Philippines, and the rest of the world when it came to spices. However, most of the older buildings did not make it through WWII. The city is still worth a visit though as it is home to the biggest and most important churches in the region. Contrary to the rest of Indonesia, which is predominantly Muslim, Christianity here is the main religion. Other interesting sights include the impressive Lake Tondano and Lake Linow, the nearby volcanoes, and the Christ statue in a flying posture in the Citraland Park.
