Figure 1. GGN Global Geopark Network Secretary General, Guy Martini (black shirt), inspects the Bantayo Poboide or traditional house in Limboto District, Gorontalo Regency, Tuesday (11/7/2023). The Secretary-General asked not to renovate this traditional house by changing its shape. (Photo: Isam)
GORONTALO REGENCY, Kominfotik – Bantayo Poboide, or traditional houses in Limboto District, Gorontalo Regency, were asked not to renovate by changing the shape. Secretary General of GGN's Global Geopark Network, Guy Martini, assessed that the old building has a history and is an important cultural heritage for the region.
Bantayo Poboide is defined as a house of deliberation. The traditional house, estimated to have existed since the colonial era, is planned to be restored by the Gorontalo Regency Government by slightly changing the shape of several corners of the house.
“It is a historical building with a unique shape, exciting. This house is precious as a cultural heritage for Gorontalo, which must be respected, guarded, and not modified," commented Martini after visiting the location Tuesday (11/7/2023). Guy Martini suggested that Bantayo Poboide be made the geopark secretariat if the provincial government's proposal is approved to become a National Geopark. The place is an exciting representation of the history and culture of Gorontalo.
Figure 2. Mr. Guy Martini sits on the Puade, or traditional altar, in Bantayo Poboide.
"My suggestion is that if you want to develop a geopark, this can be used as a secretariat. It is the right office to talk about Gorontalo's geopark and history," he explained.
Several objects caught his attention. One of them is the existence of a Puade or traditional altar. Martini and his assistant Daniela even took pictures of a married couple.
Another part that caught his attention was the mural containing traditional advice outside the building. The message, if interpreted, means "all elements of the earth belong to the leader but don't do as you please," which is considered philosophical, and the fourth day of Guy Martini's visit to Gorontalo targeted some geosites.
Apart from traditional houses, Martini saw the Gorontalo Archaeological Museum, Limboto Lake, Pentadio Resort geothermal, Tohupo wood fossils, and limestone in Huidu Village, West Limboto District.
Reporter : Isam