Dili


Dili

Overview

Introduction

East Timor's capital and largest city is still recovering from the ravages of the independence struggle. You'll see plenty of construction sites and scarred buildings. The waterfront is probably the prettiest part of town, and lots of locals walk there in the evening. A park separates the beach
from the road. Fishermen unload their catch on the beach. The former colonial garrison, built in 1627, has been restored on the exterior, and the cathedral fronts the harbor. Above Dili, on the hill at Cape Fatucama, a statue of Christ stands guard over this strongly Catholic city.

Visit the Santa Cruz cemetery, where Indonesian soldiers gunned down peaceful protestors in 1991. It's especially moving around the anniversary of the massacre, 12 November, when survivors gather to remember the event. Other things to do in Dili include shopping at local markets and going to the beach. Pasir Putih (White Sands), just east of town, is the most popular beach.

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