It is already common knowledge that Indonesia has a lot of cultural heritage. Not only historical but also prehistoric as well. That is why Indonesia is very interesting in the eyes of archaeologists, especially in West Papua. Moreover, since they discovered the Ambesibui Site.
However, there are still many people that did not know about the existence of this site. It is very unfortunate because you can see beautiful prehistoric paintings at Ambesibui Site. Therefore, this site is perfect for historical tourism and cultural tourism.
The Discovery of Prehistoric Paintings in Ambesibui Site
If you visit the Ambesibui Site, you can see various types of paintings on the rock. You can find it on a cliff with a height of about 120 cm to 2 meters above the sea. It is a prehistoric painting that is made in red, with various patterns. However, there is nobody that knows who the painter is.
This is because of the position of the Ambesibui Site which is on the northern coast of Papua. So, many people from the past are passing through this site. Be it from the Biak tribe, native tribes from Raja Ampat, or even the tribes from outside Papua. As they pass, they leave a trail of the paintings.
This site began to attract archaeologists when the Papua Archaeological Research Department found it. At that time, they worked together with the Research and Development Planning Department of Teluk Wondama Regency on Rumberpon Island.
There are many types of paintings on the Ambesibui Site. Aside from the painting of the human body, there are also paintings of lizards, fishes, and turtles. You also can see circles, lines, and other geometrical shapes in the rocks.
The Meaning of Prehistoric Paintings in Ambesibui Site
Just like modern painting, prehistoric painting also has its meaning and significance. It depends on the philosophy and the background of the painter. Many people believe that the painting is a reflection of people’s lives at that time.
For example, there is the painting of the lizard. In the past, lizards were a symbol of belief in ancestral spirits. It is because lizards always live on the ceiling. Symbolically, the lizard is always above. Just like the ancestral spirits that are believed to be above all of us.
So, ancient people often associate lizards with the world above. Aside from that, there are also different paintings with different meanings.
The Location of Ambesibui Site
Administratively, the location of the Ambesibui Site is in Yomakan Village, Rumberpon District, Teluk Wondama Regency, West Papua. This site is one of the prehistoric paintings sites in Indonesia. Of course, this is a matter of pride for the West Papuan, especially the people from Teluk Wondama.
Teluk Wondama officially became a district in 2003, the result of the division of Manokwari Regency. So, from Manokwari, you can reach this site by longboat for around 5,5 hours.
The Tourist Attraction of Ambesibui Site
Because of its uniqueness and its beauty, the Ambesibui Site can become a tourist attraction. It is one of the most potential tourist attractions in Teluk Wondama. You can learn history and enjoy the beautiful scenery. So, it would be perfect for you who love ancient history and nature.
Aside from enjoying cultural tourism by visiting Ambesibui, you can enjoy another kind of tourist experience in Teluk Wondama. You can enjoy nature tourism, culinary tourism, and even religious tourism. It is because Teluk Wondama is a beautiful and attractive place.
In conclusion, Teluk Wondama is full of charm.
Final Words
So, this is the explanation about Ambesibui Site that you need to know. It is a place that will present you with the charm of prehistoric paintings. So, it would be perfect for you who want to experience the history and cultural tourism.