Papua New Guinea Goroka (Eastern Highlands): A Rich History



Papua New Guinea Goroka, or the Eastern Highlands, is a region of the country that is steeped in history and culture. Located in the central highlands of Papua New Guinea, the Eastern Highlands are home to some of the most rugged and diverse landscapes in the world. The area is a melting pot of different cultures, languages, and traditions, and its history is as fascinating as its present.

The Eastern Highlands of Papua New Guinea were first settled by the Motu people in the early 1800s. The Motu were a traditional hunting and gathering people who had migrated from the coastal regions of the country. They were the first to establish permanent settlements in the region, and their presence can still be seen today in the form of traditional ceremonies and artifacts.

The first Europeans to explore the Eastern Highlands of Papua New Guinea were German missionaries in the late 1800s. They established a mission in the area and began to convert the local population to Christianity. In the early 1900s, the region was colonized by the Australians, and it became part of the Australian Territory of Papua.

In the 1950s, the region became part of the newly-established independent nation of Papua New Guinea. It was during this time that the town of Goroka was established as the capital of the Eastern Highlands Province. The town quickly grew in size and importance, becoming an important trading center for the region.

Today, Goroka is an important cultural and economic hub, and it is home to some of the most interesting and unique cultures in the world. The people of the Eastern Highlands are known for their vibrant and colorful traditional dress, their unique language, and their diverse religious beliefs. The region is also home to some of the most spectacular scenery in the world, and it is a popular destination for tourists and adventurers alike.

The history of the Eastern Highlands of Papua New Guinea is a fascinating one, and it has shaped the region into the vibrant and diverse place that it is today. From its traditional Motu settlers to its modern-day tourists, the Eastern Highlands of Papua New Guinea has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for adventure, culture, or just a peaceful place to relax, the Eastern Highlands of Papua New Guinea is the perfect destination.