10 Things to Do at Uato Lari War Monument in Viqueque, Timor-Leste
Uato Lari War Monument in Viqueque, Timor-Leste is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the East Timorese people during the Indonesian occupation of the country from 1975 to 1999. The monument is a powerful reminder of the courage and strength of the people who fought for freedom and independence during this time. Here are 10 things to do at the Uato Lari War Monument in Viqueque, Timor-Leste.
1. Visit the Memorial Wall: The Memorial Wall at Uato Lari War Monument is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by the East Timorese people during the Indonesian occupation. The wall is decorated with the names of those who died during the occupation, and visitors can pay their respects by placing a flower or lighting a candle in memory of those who lost their lives.
2. View the Monument: The Uato Lari War Monument itself is an impressive sight, standing at the top of a hill overlooking the town of Viqueque. The monument is a large cross-shaped structure, made of granite and marble, and is inscribed with the words “For freedom and independence”.
3. Explore the Museum: The Uato Lari War Monument has a museum, which contains a collection of artifacts and photographs from the Indonesian occupation. The museum also has an audio-visual presentation about the history of the occupation and the struggles of the East Timorese people during this time.
4. Attend a Memorial Ceremony: Every year, on the anniversary of the Indonesian occupation, a memorial ceremony is held at the Uato Lari War Monument. The ceremony is attended by members of the East Timorese government, military, and the general public, and is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the East Timorese people during the occupation.
5. Climb the Monument: Visitors to the Uato Lari War Monument can climb the stairs to the top of the cross-shaped structure and enjoy a panoramic view of the town of Viqueque and the surrounding countryside.
6. Visit the Memorial Garden: The Memorial Garden at the Uato Lari War Monument is a peaceful and tranquil place, where visitors can pay their respects to the victims of the Indonesian occupation. The garden has a pond, a fountain, and a statue of a soldier, and is a place to reflect on the courage and strength of the East Timorese people during this time.
7. Take a Guided Tour: The Uato Lari War Monument offers guided tours of the monument and the museum, as well as the memorial garden. The tour guides are knowledgeable and passionate about the history of the Indonesian occupation, and provide a unique insight into the struggles of the East Timorese people during this time.
8. Enjoy the Local Cuisine: Viqueque is home to a wide variety of delicious local dishes, and visitors to the Uato Lari War Monument can sample some of the best of them. From spicy fish stews to traditional flatbreads, there are plenty of delicious dishes to enjoy in Viqueque.
9. Take a Hike: The Uato Lari War Monument is located in a beautiful and rugged landscape, and visitors can explore the surrounding area by taking a hike. The trails offer stunning views of the town of Viqueque and the surrounding countryside, and provide a great opportunity to get some exercise and enjoy the fresh air.
10. Learn About the History: The Uato Lari War Monument is a powerful reminder of the courage and strength of the East Timorese people during the Indonesian occupation, and visitors can learn more about the history of the occupation by visiting the museum and taking a guided tour. There are also plenty of books and other resources available to learn more about the history of the occupation.
Uato Lari War Monument in Viqueque, Timor-Leste is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by the East Timorese people during the Indonesian occupation. Whether you are looking to pay your respects to those who lost their lives, explore the rugged landscape, or learn more about the history of the occupation, there is plenty to do at the Uato Lari War Monument in Viqueque, Timor-Leste.