Amidst a magnificent landscape rich in culture, Bena Traditional Village stands as a witness to the ancient civilization of Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. Nestled at the foot of Mount Inerie, this village preserves its ancestral heritage by maintaining traditional customs and upholding the authenticity of its houses and way of life. With its dramatic natural scenery and living traditions, Bena is one of the most fascinating cultural destinations in Indonesia.
History and Cultural Heritage
Bena is an ancient village that has existed for centuries and is recognized as the cultural center of the Ngada people. The local community still adheres to megalithic traditions, evident from the large stone structures in the village center, used for ancestral worship rituals. Animism and dynamism remain integral to Bena’s way of life, even though many residents have also embraced Catholicism.
The village has a unique layout, with houses facing the village center. The traditional houses are stilt houses with steep thatched roofs made from palm fibers or straw. Each house accommodates an extended family and contains cultural symbols representing social status and roles within the community.
Unique Architecture and Village Structure
One of Bena’s main attractions is its distinctive traditional houses, which consist of several key elements, including:
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“Sa’o”, the main stilt house where families live.
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“Ngadhu”, a wooden pillar with a small roof symbolizing masculinity and bravery.
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“Bhaga”, a small uninhabited house symbolizing femininity and protection.
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Megalithic stones, used for rituals and ancestral worship.
The layout of the houses in Bena forms a horseshoe-shaped curve, creating a harmonious atmosphere and adding to the village’s visual appeal.
Traditions and Rituals
The people of Bena continue to perform various traditional ceremonies, which remain an essential part of their daily lives. One of the most significant rituals is the ancestral offering ceremony, which involves animal sacrifices, traditional dances, and special prayers. This ritual is conducted to seek blessings and protection from ancestral spirits.
Additionally, Bena’s traditional woven textiles (ikat weaving) are a highly valued cultural heritage. The village women still weave fabrics using traditional techniques and natural dyes derived from plants. These woven textiles not only serve an aesthetic function but also hold symbolic meanings that reflect the community’s social status and philosophy of life.
Breathtaking Natural Scenery
Bena Village is not only culturally rich but also boasts extraordinary natural beauty. Situated at an altitude of approximately 1,200 meters above sea level, the village offers stunning views of Mount Inerie, a majestic cone-shaped volcano.
From the village, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking panorama of lush valleys and rolling hills surrounding the area. During sunrise or sunset, the village becomes even more magical, with sunlight illuminating the thatched roofs of traditional houses, creating a mesmerizing sight.
Bena Village as a Cultural Tourism Destination
As one of the oldest traditional villages in Flores, Bena has become a popular cultural tourism destination for both domestic and international visitors. Those who visit the village will have a unique opportunity to experience the way of life of an indigenous community that continues to uphold its ancestral traditions.
Some activities visitors can enjoy in Bena include:
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Walking through the village while learning about the philosophy behind its structures and customs.
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Interacting with local residents and hearing stories about their ancestors.
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Observing the traditional process of ikat weaving by local women.
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Admiring the scenic views of Mount Inerie from a breathtaking vantage point.
Although Bena Village has gained recognition among tourists, the local community remains committed to preserving its cultural heritage. They warmly welcome visitors while maintaining boundaries to ensure that their traditional way of life is not disrupted.
Bena Traditional Village in Flores is a cultural gem that has stood the test of time. With its distinctive traditional houses, enduring megalithic traditions, and stunning natural surroundings, the village offers an authentic and profound cultural experience.
For anyone looking to witness how ancestral traditions continue to thrive in the modern era, Bena is a must-visit destination. This village not only provides insights into Flores’ history and customs but also showcases breathtaking natural landscapes, making it a truly enriching travel experience.
