Nuwo Sesat Traditional House
Nuwo Sesat Traditional House is the traditional house of Lampung Province, symbolizing the identity and cultural values of the Lampung people. The name "Nuwo Sesat" translates to "The Grand Hall," indicating the house’s primary function as a venue for community discussions and traditional ceremonies.
This stilt house design reflects the adaptation of the Lampung community to tropical environments, providing protection against floods and wild animals. Nuwo Sesat serves not only as a place to live but also as a cultural and social hub for traditional and ceremonial activities.
Distinctive Features
Structure:
- Stilt House: Elevated approximately 1.5 to 2 meters above the ground to protect against floods and moisture.
- Building Materials: Constructed from local wood such as tembesu or meranti, with a roof made of nipa leaves or palm fiber.
- Roof: The roof has a pyramid or saddle shape with pointed ends, combining aesthetic and functional purposes.
Room Layout:
- Front Veranda (Sesat Balai): Serves as a space for receiving guests or conducting traditional discussions.
- Main Room: Functions as a family gathering area or venue for traditional ceremonies.
- Back Room: Used as a kitchen and storage space.
- Front Staircase: Often adorned with decorative elements known as singei, symbolizing Lampung’s cultural richness.
Ornaments:
The house is decorated with Lampung-style carvings featuring motifs of flora, fauna, and geometric patterns, symbolizing harmony and local wisdom. Dominant colors such as red, white, and black are used to highlight the cultural values of the Lampung community.
Philosophical Meaning
Nuwo Sesat embodies philosophical values that reflect the life and culture of the Lampung people:
1. Mutual Cooperation: The house represents the spirit of togetherness through discussions and collaborative efforts.
2. Harmony with Nature: The stilt structure symbolizes the Lampung people’s harmonious relationship with their natural surroundings.
3. Cultural Grandeur: The house’s ornaments and layout reflect the pride and respect for Lampung’s traditions and customs.
4. Social Hierarchy Symbol: Nuwo Sesat signifies the social status and cultural identity of the Lampung community.
Functions of Nuwo Sesat Traditional House in Daily Life
1. Cultural Activity Center: Used for traditional ceremonies, community discussions, weddings, and other cultural events.
2. Residential Space: Some Nuwo Sesat houses also function as homes for extended families of the Lampung community.
3. Storage: The back room and the space beneath the house are utilized for storing agricultural produce or household items.
4. Cultural Preservation: Nuwo Sesat serves as a symbol of pride and cultural identity for the Lampung people, passed down through generations.
5. Tourist Attraction: As one of Lampung's cultural icons, Nuwo Sesat attracts visitors interested in learning more about Lampung's rich heritage.
