A journey through music, art, and culture
Hello Seychelleslovers! Today, I’m taking you on a dive into the culture and traditions of the Seychelles. After exploring the geographical wonders, the films shot in this paradise, and the unique flavors of Creole cuisine, it’s time to delve deeper into the traditions of the Seychelles.
A Blend of Influences: Seychellois Culture
The Seychelles are a true cultural melting pot, where French, African, and Malagasy influences blend together. This fusion has given rise to a unique culture that is both conservative and creative. Here, Seychellois art bursts with vibrant colors, traditional music and dances will get your heart racing, and the Creole language tells stories of a rich past. Even the architecture of the Seychelles is remarkable: a captivating mix of colonial and tropical styles that makes every corner of the archipelago a treasure to discover.
Architecture: A Heritage to Admire
The architecture of the Seychelles tells ancient and fascinating stories. Imagine strolling among traditional wooden houses with pandanus roofs and grand colonial mansions. Many of these structures have been carefully restored and transformed into official buildings, luxury restaurants (like the Grand Trianon, home to the Marie Antoniette Restaurant), boutiques, and charming hotels. If you really want to immerse yourself in the history of the archipelago, don’t miss a walk through the streets of Victoria, the capital, or perhaps a stay in a colonial-style villa.
Music and Dance: Let the Rhythm Move You
Get ready to sway your hips, because rhythm is a part of daily life here in the Seychelles! Traditional music and dances of the Seychelles are a fusion of African, Malagasy, and European influences. The Moutya, for example, is a sensual and mysterious dance performed to the beat of drums around a fire. Fun fact: in 2021, the Moutya was officially recognized as a UNESCO Heritage, making its debut in Paris. Not bad, right?
We can’t talk about Moutya without mentioning Ton Pa, the pioneer who made this traditional dance famous. With his melodies and his skill in playing the bonn, a typical percussion instrument, the Bombre and the Zez. Ton Pa brought Moutya to be recognized not only in the Seychelles but also internationally. His contribution was essential in preserving and spreading this crucial part of Seychellois culture.
The most popular music is the Segà (with an emphasis on the “a”), while Kamtolè reminds us of European influences. The instruments that accompany these dances are equally unique, such as the bom (a bow instrument) and the zez (a one-string sitar). And if you’re wondering who the king of Seychellois music is, let me introduce you to Jean Marc Volcy, the most famous singer in the Indian Ocean. Another artist you shouldn’t miss is Patrick Victor, whose music is simply stunning.
Oral Tradition: Tales and Legends
The Seychelles are also rich in oral traditions, with rhymes and word games that reflect the cultural mix between Europe and Africa. Among the most well-known characters are Pti Zan, of French origin, and Soungoula, a creature half-man, half-monkey from Africa. And then there’s Makoupa, the wise turtle who always knows how to solve problems.
Literature and Theater: A World to Discover
If you’ve never heard of Antoine Abel, it’s time to get acquainted. Abel is considered the father of Seychellois literature, and in 1982 he published the first Creole novel, “Mon Tann En Leokri.” His books bring to life the local customs, beliefs, and nature of the Seychelles. Although he passed away in 2004, his works continue to inspire.
Seychellois theater, on the other hand, has its roots in African traditions, with elements such as healing and resurrection scenes and sokwe, a kind of commedia dell’arte.
Seychellois Art: Colors and Local Life
Over the past fifteen years, a new generation of artists has emerged in the Seychelles, bringing with them an explosion of creativity. The National Gallery and the Kenwyn House Art Gallery in Victoria are ideal places to admire these lively and colorful works. If you find yourself in Mahé, don’t miss the local art galleries, such as George Camille’s in Victoria—an artist who has uniquely captured the essence of tropical landscapes and life, along with many others. Of course, you might want to take a painting home as a souvenir.
Some of the most famous artists include Donald Adelaide, Michael Adams, James Auguste, Tom Bowers, Alain Camille, Antonio Filippin (who at about 30 years old moved to the Seychelles. We can see his sculptures everywhere for example the wooden sign at the airport or the Maria’s Rock restaurant in Baie Lazaire) and many more.
And don’t forget to visit the tea factory, where you can relax with a cup of tea, a coffee, and a slice of cake, and discover how the world’s best tea (in my opinion) is grown and processed!
A Sneak Peek…
And to wrap things up, here’s a little treat: I’m writing a travel guide to the Seychelles that will be out soon. Stay tuned! 😉
