The Megalithic Village of Bena

Bena Village is a megalithic village in Bjawa, in Ngada Regency. Thousands of tourists come to
visit the village. It is located 2245 meter above sea level. It is believed that Bena people have resided
in the village since 1,200 years ago or might be longer. Despite its age, Bena’s traditional houses are
still preserved in their original form.
In the area, there are 49 houses where nine clans live. Each clan has two main houses. One
house, called saka puu, is for female elders. They placed a figure, called bhaga on the top of saka puu.
The other house is built for the males. It is called saka lobo. On its roof, people placed a statue that
holds a machete and a spear. Each main house is accompanied by a plain house that has no symbols,
called kaka.
The houses are made from bamboo and wood from the forests that surround Bena village. The
houses are decorated with pictures of animals. Each represents a particular aspect of life. A horse
symbolizes energy and reminds the Bena people to do their work with horse power. Chickens remind
them to go farming as early as possible. When the men go farming, the women spend their time for
weaving. They display the woven fabrics in front of the house to let tourists buy them as souvenirs.
Visiting Bena Village will really give you an unforgettable experience. You will feel how people
live in harmony with nature.