The book “On The Ethnography of Clan-based Ceremonial House in Lio, Central Flores” by M. Arief Wicaksono and Furqon Badriantoro offers an in-depth exploration of the traditional houses and cultural expressions within the Lio community in Nggela, Central Flores. Supported by the Directorate General of Culture under the Ministry of Education and Culture of Indonesia, this ethnographic study delves into the construction, symbolic meanings, and cultural practices associated with the traditional houses, or Sa’o, in Nggela.

The work outlines the significant role of Sa’o in the Lio community, not just as physical structures but as repositories of cultural values, spiritual beliefs, and social organization. These houses are central to the community’s identity, serving as venues for rituals, ceremonies, and the maintenance of lineage and social relations. The authors trace the origins of these traditional houses, connecting them to ancestral narratives, migration histories, and interactions with the natural environment, highlighting the community’s adaptability and respect for nature.

Through meticulous fieldwork, Wicaksono and Badriantoro document the architectural features, construction processes, and materials of Sa’o, revealing the intricate relationship between the built environment and Lio cosmology. This includes an examination of the spatial organization within the Sa’o, which mirrors the social hierarchy and cosmological beliefs of the Lio people.

The book also addresses the challenges faced by the Lio community in preserving their traditional houses and cultural heritage in the face of modernization and external influences. It discusses initiatives for cultural revitalization and the importance of community involvement in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage.

Ultimately, “On The Ethnography of Clan-based Ceremonial House in Lio, Central Flores” is a comprehensive study that contributes significantly to the understanding of the Lio community’s cultural landscape. It emphasizes the importance of traditional knowledge and practices in contemporary society, advocating for the preservation of cultural diversity and heritage.