Todo Traditional Village is one of the traditional villages in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. This village is known as the cultural center of the Manggarai clan. It is located in Todo Village, Satarmese District, Manggarai Regency, and is a historical place that was once the center of government of the Manggarai kingdom in the past.
Todo Village has a long history as the first capital of the Manggarai Kingdom. Here, there are still strong traces of cultural heritage, including the traditional Manggarai house called “Mbaru Niang“. This traditional house has a cone-shaped structure and is made using natural materials such as wood, bamboo, and ijuk as its roof.
In addition, this village also has a typical Todo woven cloth, which is believed to be one of the oldest woven cloths in Manggarai. This cloth has unique patterns and motifs that depict the traditional and social values of the local community.
One of the main attractions of the Todo Traditional Village is the traditional house “Mbaru Niang“. It is still maintained and preserved by the local community. This house has five levels, where each level has its own function. The first place to live, then to storing harvests, and the last one is a place to store heirlooms.
This village is also surrounded by megalithic stones that have sacred value and are used in various traditional ceremonies. The existence of these stones shows that the Todo people still hold fast to their ancestral beliefs and maintain their traditions well.
The Todo people still carry out various traditional rituals and ceremonies, such as “Penti“. It is an annual thanksgiving ceremony for the harvest and the welfare of the village. This ceremony involves various cultural elements. Such as dance, traditional music, and the slaughter of animals as a form of offering to ancestors.
In addition, the traditional system in Todo Village is still strictly implemented, including the role of “Tu’a Golo” (traditional elders). Tu’a Golo are responsible for regulating the social and spiritual life of the community.
Todo Traditional Village is now one of the cultural tourism destinations in Flores that is attractive to both domestic and foreign tourists. Visitors can learn about the history of the Manggarai Kingdom. More over, the tourist also can see firsthand process of making Todo’s typical weaving, and feel the atmosphere of traditional life.
In addition to culture and history, tourists can also enjoy the natural beauty around Todo Village. This village is located in a hilly area with beautiful panoramas and cool air. It is one of the cultural centers of the Manggarai clan which is rich in history, tradition, and local wisdom. The uniqueness of the traditional house “Mbaru Niang”, typical woven fabrics, and various traditional rituals make it an attractive tourist destination for anyone who wants to explore the original culture of Flores. By maintaining the traditions and heritage of their ancestors, Todo Village is proof of the richness of culture that continues to live amidst the development of the times.
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