Manatuto Stone Houses: 10 Things to Do in Manatuto, Timor-Leste



Manatuto, the capital of Timor-Leste, is a stunning and culturally rich city that is home to some of the oldest and most iconic stone houses in the world. These ancient structures, known as “Uma Lulik”, are a unique and important part of Timorese history and culture, and exploring them is a must-do for any visitor to Manatuto. Here are 10 things to do in Manatuto to experience the beauty and culture of the city’s stone houses:

1. Visit the Manatuto Stone Houses Museum: The Manatuto Stone Houses Museum is a great place to start your exploration of Manatuto’s stone houses. Here you can find out more about the history and significance of these structures, as well as take a guided tour of the museum’s collection of stone houses.

2. Take a guided tour of the stone houses: There are several guided tours available that will take you to some of Manatuto’s most iconic stone houses. These tours will provide you with an in-depth look at the architecture and history of the stone houses, as well as the opportunity to explore some of the city’s most beautiful and interesting sites.

3. Explore the Manatuto Stone Houses Park: The Manatuto Stone Houses Park is a great place to explore Manatuto’s stone houses. Here you can wander through the park’s various gardens and pathways, and take in the beauty of the city’s stone houses.

4. Visit the Manatuto Stone Houses Observatory: The Manatuto Stone Houses Observatory is a great place to learn more about the city’s stone houses. Here you can observe the stars, planets, and galaxies from the observatory’s viewing platform, as well as take a guided tour of the city’s stone houses.

5. Take a cooking class at the Manatuto Stone Houses Cooking School: The Manatuto Stone Houses Cooking School offers a range of cooking classes in traditional Timorese cuisine. Here you can learn how to make local dishes such as bacalhau, a traditional fish dish, and learn about the history and culture of the city’s stone houses.

6. Visit the Manatuto Stone Houses Market: The Manatuto Stone Houses Market is a great place to experience traditional Timorese culture. Here you can buy local crafts, jewelry, and food, as well as take part in traditional Timorese ceremonies.

7. Take a walking tour of the stone houses: There are several walking tours available that will take you to some of Manatuto’s most iconic stone houses. These tours will provide you with an in-depth look at the architecture and history of the stone houses, as well as the opportunity to explore some of the city’s most beautiful and interesting sites.

8. Visit the Manatuto Stone Houses Library: The Manatuto Stone Houses Library is a great place to learn more about the city’s stone houses. Here you can browse the library’s collection of books and manuscripts, as well as take part in lectures and workshops on the history and culture of the city’s stone houses.

9. Take a boat tour of the stone houses: There are several boat tours available that will take you to some of Manatuto’s most iconic stone houses. These tours will provide you with an in-depth look at the architecture and history of the stone houses, as well as the opportunity to explore some of the city’s most beautiful and interesting sites.

10. Attend a traditional Timorese festival: Manatuto is home to several traditional Timorese festivals, such as the Manatuto Stone Houses Festival and the Manatuto Stone Houses Music Festival. These festivals are a great way to experience traditional Timorese culture and music, as well as explore the city’s stone houses.

Manatuto is a stunning and culturally rich city that is home to some of the oldest and most iconic stone houses in the world. Exploring these ancient structures is a must-do for any visitor to Manatuto, and the city offers a range of activities and experiences to help you make the most of your visit. From visiting the Manatuto Stone Houses Museum to taking a boat tour of the stone houses, there are plenty of things to do in Manatuto to experience the beauty and culture of the city’s stone houses.