Nestled within the expansive karst mountain ranges of South Sulawesi, the Holy Family Pilgrim Center in Sapak Bayobayo offers a distinctive spiritual and cultural experience unlike any other pilgrimage site in Indonesia.
Located in Tana Toraja Regency, the shrine is quickly gaining recognition for its natural beauty, unique traditions, and deep spiritual resonance.
A Geological and Historical Wonder
Sapak Bayobayo lies within the second-largest karst cluster in the world, stretching from Maros Regency to the northern parts of South Sulawesi.
The karst highlands, estimated to have formed millions of years ago, feature intricate cave systems adorned with stalactites and stalagmites.
Reaching the site requires dedication: a journey of over eight hours by bus or a one-hour flight from Makassar, the provincial capital.
Visitors are rewarded with not just breathtaking scenery but also a spiritual encounter deeply rooted in Catholic tradition.
Unique Dedication to the Holy Family
Unlike most Marian grottos in Indonesia, Sapak Bayobayo is dedicated to the Holy Family of Nazareth. Its centerpiece is the newly constructed Sacra Familia Church, which will be officially blessed on Dec. 29, 2024.
The ceremony, held on Dec. 29, was officiated by Ignatius Cardinal Suharyo of Jakarta Archdiocese, Emeritus Bishop John Liku Ada’, and Archbishop Frans Nipa of Makassar.
A Singular Way of the Cross
One of the most unique features of the site is Station No. 7 of the Way of the Cross. It is situated in a semi-open-air cave, where the traditional Toraja burial practice is observed.
Bodies are laid to rest on the ground without coffins, preserved with herbal materials to delay decomposition.
“Here in Sapak Bayobayo’s Station No. 7, worshippers will find not only a premise to pray the Way of the Cross but also scores of human remains such as skulls, bones, and others,” said Michael Andin, CEO of Sapak Bayobayo, in an interview with LiCAS News.
An open-air cave at Station No. 7 of the Way of the Cross in Sapak Bayobayo, South Sulawesi, showcases the traditional Toraja burial practice, where human remains, including skulls and bones, are preserved with herbal materials. This sacred site symbolizes Golgotha, “The Hill of the Skull,” offering a unique spiritual experience for pilgrims and visitors alike. Photo by Mathias Hariyadi
Inclusive Spirituality
The Holy Family Pilgrim Center is not exclusive to Catholics. “If our guests are not Catholics—either Christian denominations or even non-Christian communities—this Way of the Cross is recited on the basis of mutual common concepts and thoughts about fraternal and parental love, the value of serving others,” explained Andin.
He highlighted the site’s flexibility in adapting universal values to foster inclusivity.
Environmental Stewardship
The shrine also serves as a platform for environmental advocacy.
Fr. Ferry Sutrisna Widjaja, an environmental activist from the Bandung Diocese, led a reflective session last year that emphasized the importance of preserving Sapak Bayobayo’s natural beauty.
He urged participants to avoid cutting trees, littering, and vandalism.
During his visit, Father Ferry also spoke of the pangi tree, whose fruit, kluwek, is a key ingredient in traditional rawon cuisine.
“Nobody knows how and since when these pangi trees could grow in this mountainous karst highland. It seems that these very trees grow by themselves without us knowing who initially planted them here,” said Andin.
A Place for Peaceful Reflection
Sapak Bayobayo has become a retreat for urban dwellers seeking peace and healing.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the serene environment, surrounded by traditional Toraja villages, lush greenery, and wildlife.
Buffalos graze in the fields while birds perch on their backs, and the nights are filled with the sounds of nocturnal animals.
