Culture and history

Papua New Guinea is one of the most multicultural countries in the world, where hundreds of ethnic groups and more than 800 languages ​ ​ coexist.

Cultural origins mix Papuan and Austronesian heritage: from sea trade routes (Hiri tradition) to mountain farming communities.

The colonial era passed under the influence of Germany, Britain and then Australia; after World War II and the Kokoda track, the country gained independence in 1975.

The social framework is based on the principle of wantok (family and community ties).

Ritual life is rich in singsing (dancing and body painting), kundu music (drums), male "haus tambaran" among the Sepik peoples and crafts - wicker bilum, carving, ornaments.

Rites often combine Christianity with local beliefs.

The official languages ​ ​ are Tok Pisin, Hiri Motu and English, in everyday life there are dozens of local ones.

The calendar is decorated with Mt Hagen Show, Goroka Show, Hiri Moale; cuisine - mumu oven, taro, sago, kaukau sweet potato and seafood.

Sharp natural mosaic - from coastal lagoons to highlands - is reflected in costumes, masks and mythology, forming a unique cultural landscape of PNG.