Wae Rebo, Desa di Atas Awan Berumur Ribuan Tahun

Summary

Wae Rebo, a traditional village in Indonesia, is nestled at 1200 meters above sea level in the remote mountains of Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara. This culturally rich village, known for its unique architecture and UNESCO World Heritage status since 2012, offers a pristine environment free from pollution. The village's thatched-roof houses, called 'mbaru Niang,' are distinctively shaped and built without nails, showcasing the ingenuity of the Minangkabau descendants. Wae Rebo's residents lead a simple life, primarily farming and cultivating crops like coffee and cassava. Despite the lack of electricity, the community thrives on traditional lighting and relies on natural springs for rituals and irrigation. Accessible only after a challenging journey, Wae Rebo is a sought-after destination for its unique cultural heritage and architectural charm.

Takeaways

• 🏞️ Wae Rebo is a traditional village located at an altitude of 1200 meters above sea level in the remote highlands of Nusa Tenggara Timur province, Indonesia.
• 🌁 Known as a village 'above the clouds,' it offers breathtaking views of natural beauty, blending with the simplicity of rural life.
• 🏡 The village is recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage site since 2012, showcasing its unique cultural and historical significance.
• 🏘️ Wae Rebo is one of the highest villages in Indonesia, with a history dating back 1200 years, and is home to descendants of the Minang people from West Sumatra.
• 🏠 The traditional houses, known as 'Mbaru Niang,' are cone-shaped with roofs that nearly touch the ground, constructed without nails or ropes, using local materials like wood and bamboo.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 A single 'Mbaru Niang' house can accommodate 6-8 families, and each floor serves a different purpose, from living spaces to storage and ceremonial areas.
• 🌾 The villagers primarily rely on agriculture, growing crops like corn and coffee, and their staple foods include cassava and corn.
• 💧 The community uses natural springs from the mountains for their water needs, which are essential for their daily life and traditional ceremonies.
• 🚫 Despite its remote location, Wae Rebo is not connected to the electricity grid, and villagers still use traditional lamps for lighting.
• 🗺️ Access to Wae Rebo is challenging and requires a long journey, including flights, land transportation, and a several-hour trek through dense forests and across steep terrain.
• 🌐 Wae Rebo is a popular destination among international tourists, particularly from Europe, who are drawn to its unique architecture and cultural richness.

Q & A

What is the name of the village described in the script?

The village described in the script is called Wae Rebo.

In which province is Wae Rebo located?

Wae Rebo is located in the province of Nusa Tenggara Timur.

How high above sea level is Wae Rebo?

Wae Rebo is situated at an altitude of 1200 meters above sea level.

What is unique about the location of Wae Rebo?

Wae Rebo is unique in its location as it is a traditional village situated amidst clouds, giving it a very picturesque and serene setting.

Why is Wae Rebo recognized by UNESCO?

Wae Rebo is recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage site since 2012, due to its unique traditional houses and rich cultural heritage.

What is the name of the traditional houses in Wae Rebo?

The traditional houses in Wae Rebo are called 'mbaru Niang.'

What are the distinguishing features of mbaru Niang houses?

Mbaru Niang houses are conical-shaped with roofs that almost touch the ground, and they are made of materials like wood, worok, and bamboo without the use of nails or ropes.

How many families typically live in one mbaru Niang house?

Each mbaru Niang house in Wae Rebo is inhabited by 6-8 families.

What are the main occupations of the people in Wae Rebo?

The main occupations of the people in Wae Rebo are farming, with activities such as planting coffee, cloves, and other crops.

What is the significance of the journey to Wae Rebo for visitors?

The journey to Wae Rebo is significant as it involves a long and strenuous trek through remote areas, which adds to the allure and exclusivity of the village for visitors.

How does the community of Wae Rebo obtain their water supply?

The community of Wae Rebo obtains their water supply from mountain springs, which are also used for traditional ceremonies and irrigating their agricultural lands.