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Top Winter Destinations in Europe: Ski Resorts, Cities & Countryside Retreats

Europe is a magical destination during the winter months, with its picturesque snow-covered landscapes, charming Christmas markets, and exciting winter sports opportunities. Whether you're looking to hit the slopes, explore historic cities, or cozy up by a fireplace in a quaint countryside retreat, Europe has something for everyone. In this list article, we'll explore some of the best winter vacations in Europe, from top winter destinations to must-visit winter cities, best ski resorts, and cozy getaways in the countryside. Top Winter Destinations in Europe One of the top winter destinations in Europe is the stunning Swiss Alps. With its world-renowned ski resorts like Zermatt and St. Moritz, Switzerland offers unparalleled skiing and snowboarding experiences amidst breathtaking mountain scenery. Another popular destination is Lapland in Finland, where you can experience the magic of a winter wonderland complete with reindeer sleigh rides, husky safaris, and the chance to...

Caci Dance, Traditional Dance From Flores NTT






Caci Dance is one of the traditional arts of a kind of typical war dance from the Manggarai community on Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara Province. This dance is a traditional dance performed by 2 (two) male dancers who dance and also fight each other by using a whip and a shield as a weapon. Caci dance is also one of the famous traditional art in Flores Island, NTT Province. This dance is often displayed in various events such as during the harvest season (hang woja), new year ritual (pause), as well as various other traditional ceremonies.




History of Caci Dance




Historically, this Caci Dance originated from a tradition of Manggarai society where men will fight each other one on one to test their courage and also their dexterity in the fight. This dance then developed into an art where there is dance movement, song, and also music accompaniment in enlivening the event. The name Caci Dance itself comes from the word ca meaning one and ci word meaning test. So this can be interpreted as a test dexterity in a way one on one.




Meaning And Values In Caci Dance




As it functions, Caci Dance is a medium for Manggarai men to prove their masculinity, be it in terms of courage and dexterity. Although this dance contains elements of violence in it, this art has a message of peace in it like a spirit of sportsmanship, mutual respect, and also resolved without a grudge between them. it shows that they have the spirit and also the spirit of heroism within them.




Caci Dance Performance




Caci dance is performed by a group of male dancers armed with whips and shields. In the show, a group of dancers is divided into 2 (two) sections and competed for one on one. Before the dancers are contested, the show will first begin with Tandak Dance or Danding Dance Manggarai. This dance will be performed by male and female dancers as the opening of the show and enliven the Caci Dance show. After the opening dance is complete then proceed with the attraction of Caci Dance.



At the moment the two dancers will enter the arena, the dancers first to warm up by doing dance moves. Then they will challenge each other while singing traditional songs, then the game begins. In this attraction, there are some rules, namely the player can only hit on the upper part of his body as in the arms, back, or chest.




The Whacked Dancers




In addition, the dancers must be able to deflect or also avoid the opponent's attack. If not avoid, then he will be hit by an opponent attack and will leave his body injured, even bleeding. The defender will be declared defeated if exposed to the whip in his eyes. After all the dancers have been played, then both groups are gathered and will do handshakes or embrace as a sign of peace and no grudge between them.




Dance of Caci Dance




In this Caci Dance performances will usually be accompanied by traditional musical instruments such as gongs and drums, as well as singing nenggo or dare from supporters. In this performance, each group usually has its own supporters. Just like in a sports match, the supporters will also be cheering and giving encouragement to the dancers to win.




Caci Dance Costume




In this Caci dance, dancers will use costumes like warriors who will advance to the battlefield. the costumes of these dancers usually only use the head cover (base) and also clothes on the bottom only, so that the body on the top without naked. On the head cover, the dancers use a mask made of hard animal buffalo skin and are used to protect the face from the opponent's attack.



While on the lower body will use white trousers and songket sarong typical of black Manggarai. As accessories are usually given bells that sounded following the movements of the dancers. In addition, dancers carry whips and shields as weapons, made of buffalo leather or cow that has been dried.




The Development of Caci Dance




Caci dance is one of the traditional art that is well known and still preserved by the people of Manggarai on the island of Flores, East Nusa Tenggara Province. Art is also still often displayed in various events such as harvest season (hang woja), new year ritual (pause), welcoming guests, and various other traditional events.