Culture East Timorese culture is alive and well. It is rich in its sources and influences, and is a reflection of the resilience and character of our people. In our mountainous land, we have a great linguistic diversity and this is also seen in our traditions and cultural practices. Family and community ties are a vital part of our social structure and culture. Stories, singing and music and dancing play an integral part in our lives.
Handicrafts are both practical implements and clothing and often have deep symbolic meaning.
Mixed with the traditions of our land is the Portuguese influence of centuries. And from the 23 years of occupation has grown a great cultural expression of resistance, exile, loss and survival. Our people have expressed their deep knowing of themselves and shared their different experiences, expressed the pain and suffering of these years, reflected and asserted our identity through our culture. With these pages we bring you an introduction to the cultural riches of our people and land. We bring you pictures and reports of major cultural projects of the Timorese community in exile, and background stories on the cultural heritage of our people.