Wae Rebo Traditional Village

Wae Rebo
Wae Rebo

The traditional village of Wae Rebo is located in a mountainous area in Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara Province, Indonesia. This village is famous for the existence of the traditional Mbaru Niang traditional house which is its trademark. The following are some details about the Wae Rebo traditional village:

History of Wae Rebo Traditional Village

The Traditional Village of Wae Rebo has a long history. That said, this village has existed since the 19th century, when the Manggarai tribe first inhabited this area. The village originally consisted of several villages scattered around the mountainous area. However, due to frequent conflicts and natural disasters, the people of this village decided to build a place to live that is safe and away from danger. Finally, they chose to build a village on a hill called Rebo.

Architecture Mbaru Niang

Mbaru Niang is a traditional house that has its own uniqueness and is the hallmark of Wae Rebo. Mbaru Niang’s house consists of 7 traditional house units that are attached to each other and form a circle. Each Mbaru Niang house has five levels, where each level has its own function and use.
The first level, called lutur or tent, is where the extended family lives. Here, family members gather to carry out daily activities, such as cooking, eating and resting.

Second level, called the lobo or attic, was devoted to storing food and belongings. Here, there are wooden shelves that are used to store rice, corn, beans, and other items.
The third level, called the lentar, is where the seeds are stored for the next planting season. Here,  seeds are planted in bamboo strips arranged vertically.
The fourth level, called lempa rae, is for storing food supplies in case of drought. Here, there are wooden shelves used to store food and water for the dry season.
Finally, the fifth and top level is called the hekang code, which is also considered the most sacred, which is a place for offerings to the ancestors. Here, there are symbols of belief and sacred objects that are considered to protect and provide good luck to the villagers.

Village Community Life System

The people of  Wae Rebo village live with a very traditional life system. Further, they rely on agriculture and plantations as their main livelihood. In addition, they also raise livestock such as pigs, chickens and cows. Moreover, the people of this village live in a large family unit and highly uphold traditional values and ancestral beliefs.

Traditions and Culture Of Wae Rebo

The  Wae Rebo  village has a unique tradition and culture. The villagers still maintain traditions and rituals that have been passed down from generation to generation, such as traditional ceremonies and celebrations of religious holidays. In addition, they also have traditional arts such as caci dance and cultural songs.

Wae Rebo Traditional Village Tourism

Wae Rebo village is now a popular tourist destination in Indonesia. The people of this village open their doors for tourists who want to get to know their life and culture more closely. Visitors can stay at one of the Mbaru Niang traditional houses which are used as homestays, and enjoy the experience of a simple and unpretentious life like the people of the Wae Rebo traditional village. Let’s began your Wae Rebo Adventure with Haluan Trip.

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