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The smallest of the islands of the moon
Mohéli, with 290
km2 (20 km by 10) is the smallest of the four islands
of the Comoros archipelago, which is also composed of
Grande Comore, Anjouan and Mayotte. Grande Comore, Anjouan
and Mohéli form the independent Union of Comoros,
where as Mayotte is a French overseas territory. Mohéli
is the wildest and least populated island of the Union,
but also the most scenic and preserved, the true “Pearl
of the Comoros”.
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A
rich history, and welcoming people
The earliest inhabitants
of Comoros were Southeast Asians in the 8th century. Thereafter,
African, Arabs and Persians immigrants gave birth to the
Swahili culture, linking the islands to East Africa. The
first Europeans to land on the islands were the Portuguese
in the 19th century, but the French were more determined
in colonizing the islands and by the late 19th century
the Comoros islands were French run, until 1975 and the
independence. Only Mayotte decided to remain French. From
that time, there was a lot of political turmoil, but nowadays
Comoros are a really peaceful and tranquil country. Mohéli
is nowadays much safer than any Western country, with
thievery almost unheard of. Its 35000 inhabitants mainly
live off the land and sea, as there are no industries
on Mohéli. Mohélians are muslim and very
tolerant. Islamic Culture has led to the adoption of many
aspects of Arab dress and custom. Women cover their heads
when walking outside of home, water is used instead of
toilet paper, and men spend many hours discussing in the
shade and playing dominos. However, what will strike you
most is the hospitability of the people. |
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Celebrations
Celebrations in Comoros means eating
big. If you step foot on Mohéli in July or August,
you will certainly have a chance to take part to a “Grand
mariage” (literally great wedding), which festivities
can last for more than a week. The most elaborate sometimes
require more than 3 years of planning. Among the other different
manifestations, you will see dances like the wadaha (women’s
dance), the chigoma (men’s dance), or the diridji (men’s
danse around a table). You will admire the jewels and beauty
masks of the women. The gala evening is for both men and women,
and you might be invited to dance along. The most spectacular
of all certainly is the tam tam boeuf, where men defy a bull
dancing before letting it go run in the streets.
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