LIANG SUAYA - KING SUAYA GRAVEYARD - SANGALLA
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Visit the cemetery, carved into the cliff, to discover the traditional burial practices of the Toraja people.
The Suaya cemetery, carved into the cliff, is an emblematic place to discover the traditional burial practices of the Toraja people. Unique in the region, this is the ancient burial site of the Sangalla kings, their royal families and, to this day, the Toraja nobility. The last Toraja king was buried here in 1972, attracting the attention of National Geographic TV in the process. The cemetery, set against a hillside, features rock-cut tombs and balconies with several Tau-Tau effigies made of jackfruit wood. At the foot of the cliff, you'll find an isolated tomb, reputed to be that of an Islamic Toraja nobleman.
The stone steps leading up to the site bear witness to the contemplative moments of the ancient kings during their lives. As a tribute to this royal history, a museum is planned to preserve King Sangalla's possessions. For the moment, the majestic wooden coffins and artifacts, as well as the remains of the bones, are kept loose in a glass room at the side of the site. This cemetery, where kings are laid to rest in their traditional finery, is a place steeped in history and culture, offering a unique insight into Toraja heritage. It exudes a special atmosphere, different from other burial sites.
A small staircase on the right used to lead to a lovely viewpoint over the region. This is now impassable and dangerous.