East-Timor Culture

Hi dear followers

We made our first stop in East Timor. East Timor is a country in Southeast Asia. I was very interested in their culture so I did some research and asked some locals to tell me more about the culture in their country.

Culture

The culture of East Timor reflects numerous influences, including Portuguese, Roman Catholic, and Indonesian, on the indigenous Austronesian and Melanesian cultures of Timor. Legend tells that a giant crocodile was transformed into the island of Timor, or Crocodile Island, as it is often called. There is also a strong tradition of poetry in the country. As for architecture, some Portuguese-style buildings can be found, along with the traditional totem houses of the eastern region. These are known as uma lulik in Tetum, and lee teinu in Fataluku. Craftsmanship is also widespread, as is the weaving of traditional scarves or tais.

 

Literature

Easily the most famous East Timorese author is Xanana Gusmão, the leader of the Timorese resistance organization Fretilin, and now the president of independent East Timor. He wrote two books during the struggle for independence. Also a poet and painter, he produced works describing the culture, values, and skills of the Timorese people.

 



Music

East Timor's music reflects its history under the control of both Portugal and Indonesia, who have imported music like gamelan and fado. The most widespread form of native folk music was the likurai dance, performed to by women to welcome home men after war. They used a small drum and sometimes carried enemy heads in processions through villages; a modern version of the dance is used by women in courtship.

 

 

 

We are looking forward to visit our next destination and share our experiences with you!


Celita

 

Sources

http://easttimorgovernment.com/culture.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Culture_of_East_Timor