Figure 1. Secretary-General of the Global Geopark Network (GGN), Mr. Guy Martini, visited Karawo House on Friday (7/7/2023). The traditional Gorontalo cloth is regarded as an intangible cultural heritage of the region worthy of preservation. (Photo - Fadly)
Secretary-General of the Global Geopark Network (GGN), Mr. Guy Martini, has begun assisting at the proposed locations for Geopark Gorontalo. Geological site, historical, and cultural sites will be reviewed to provide input to the provincial government."
The advisory mission aims to assess whether the status of Aspiring Geopark Gorontalo is suitable to be designated as a National Geopark under UNESCO's supervision. If this can be achieved, the management of the geopark will garner national and global attention for conservation and the economic well-being of the community.
Mr. Guy Martini and his assistant Daniela, along with the team from Bappenas, arrived at Djalaluddin Airport, Gorontalo, on Friday (7/7/2023). The visit began with a trip to Karawo House. The traditional Gorontalo cloth is considered an intangible cultural heritage of the region worthy of preservation.
The difficulty in the process of making karawo, starting from drawing the motifs, cutting, pulling the threads, and weaving, is considered unique. Moreover, all the processes are done by hand without the assistance of machines.
Next, the entourage moved to Otanaha Fortress . The historical site dating back to the 15th century Portuguese era caught Martini's attention. Accompanied by the team from Geopark Gorontalo and the Cultural Heritage Conservation Center (BPK), Martini received explanations about the origins and history of Otanaha Fortress
"This site becomes significant because it was built around the 1500s. The architectural design and construction materials are also quite impressive, so I think it's very promising for the future of your Geopark," he explained.
Figure 2. Secretary-General of the Global Geopark Network (GGN) Mr. Guy Martini during his visit to Otanaha Fortress
Martini and his team's presence is scheduled to last until July 13, 2023. In addition to Otanaha Fortress, they will also visit Whale Shark, Olele Marine Park, and limestone rocks in Biluhu Timur.
The old city in Gorontalo will also be explored, including the geosites of Oluhuta, Lombongo, granodiorite and red limestone in Boalemo Regency. The red limestone is one of the important geological sites, along with the geothermal area of Pentadio Resort and the Lake Limboto region in Gorontalo Regency.
Reporter : Isam
Source : Kominfo
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