Discover the bizarre beauty of Sagada, nestled in the Philippines' Mountain Province. At the heart of Sagada's mystique lies a centuries-old custom that has fascinated travelers for generations, the hanging coffins of Sagada. Imagine wooden coffins cradling the deceased, balanced on the sides of imposing cliffs. Poised on cliffsides, these wooden coffins nestle the departed in a unique and enduring tradition that defies explanation. As you explore this mystical realm, you'll be drawn into the timeless charisma of the hanging coffins, a testament to the rich cultural past of this remote corner of the world. It is crafted from hollowed-out tree trunks, some coffins are supported by wooden stakes anchored into the mountainside, while others are snugly nestled within man-made caves, tightly embraced by the rock, or perched on rocky outcrops. This remote destination offers a captivating blend of ancient traditions and breathtaking landscapes, creating a wonder that will both intrigue and humble you.
A Past Covered in Mystery
As you embark on this unique journey, prepare to be gripped by the fascinating history of the hanging coffins of Sagada. Surprisingly, this remarkable custom can be traced back to ancient China, likely originating in the 8th century. The origin of this tradition remains a mystery, wrapped in a cloak of curiosity that has given rise to numerous hypotheses.
The prevailing belief points to the Bo people, an ethnic minority residing in Matangba. It is suspected that these hanging coffins were employed to protect the departed from ground-dwelling animals or to expedite their journey to the afterlife by positioning them as close to heaven as possible. In 2015, archaeologists made a groundbreaking discovery – 131 hanging coffins concealed within caves, perched on a 330-foot-high cliff. These coffins were determined to be a staggering 1,200 years old. While the method of hoisting them to their elevated resting place remains a subject of speculation, it's safe to say that the mystery adds to the attraction of this ancient custom.
In the pre-Hispanic era, the loved ones of the deceased undertook an arduous journey to place the coffins inside the Lumiang Cave. Before this, a five-day pre-burial ritual involving smoke preservation was performed, preserving the body for its final resting place.
Sadly, the tradition of hanging coffins apparently vanished with the Bo people, who faced a tragic massacre by the Ming Dynasty's army. Some Bo descendants were still found living as recently as 2005, underscoring the enduring mystique of this tradition.
The Shift of Traditions...
- In modern times, many Igorots opt out of breaking their loved ones' bones. Instead, a 2014 interview with an elder revealed that a few choose to uphold traditional customs to the fullest extent. The deceased's bones are carefully arranged in the fetal position, wrapped in a blanket, and carried to the cliffside. A smaller coffin, often carved from a hollowed-out log before death, is chosen to cradle the departed. Grievers handle the broken corpse, aiming to obtain some of their blood, which is believed to bring success and pass on the skills of the deceased.
- You might wonder why some wooden chairs are affixed to the coffins, but these chairs, known as Sangadil or death chairs, play a crucial role in the Igorot burial process. Contrary to popular belief, the smaller coffins aren't crafted for children or babies. Instead, they are designed for full-sized adults, positioned in a fetal position to imitate the way a person enters and exits the world.
- Following some intricate rituals, three pigs and two chickens are sacrificed, ensuring that the numbers always add up to either three or five. Underprivileged families, struggling to meet these requirements, occasionally resort to two chickens and one pig.
Embracing the Beauty & Mystery of Sagada
The stories and customs of this ancient tribe may appear bizarre, but they provide a fascinating glimpse into the depths of human culture and tradition. The hanging coffins of Sagada are a mark of the enduring spirit of a people determined to honor their ancestors in a unique and unforgettable way.
The journey to Sagada is not merely about exploration but a profound opportunity to connect with history and culture that has stood the test of time. May your pursuit of knowledge be as boundless as the mysteries that surround this captivating destination, and may your journey be as unforgettable as the ancient customs you'll encounter along the way. Embrace the journey, for it holds the key to unlocking the secrets of the hanging coffins and the intriguing stories they silently share.
As you embark on your journey to explore the hanging coffins of Sagada, you'll find yourself immersed in a world of wonder and deep respect for the culture that has preserved this remarkable tradition for countless centuries. It's important to approach this sacred site with the utmost care, understanding the deep significance it holds for the local community. Visitors are often reminded by locals not to touch or walk beneath the coffins, as these are not just objects but parts of deep cultural and spiritual importance.
To enhance your experience and pay proper homage to this ancient custom, consider bringing binoculars or a camera with you. These tools will enable you to view the hanging coffins from a respectful distance, allowing you to appreciate their intricate details while maintaining the pride of the site.
How to Reach?
While the majority of hanging coffins are found in China, similar practices have been unearthed in the Philippines and Indonesia. In the Philippines, this tradition's roots date back millennia and are still observed today. Elders of indigenous tribes explain that they shunned traditional burial due to the fear of rapid decomposition caused by water seeping into the soil. The hanging coffins of Sagada in the Philippines are a hidden gem, accessible only through a challenging trek. For those inspired to embark on their own pilgrimage to Sagada, the journey begins in Manila. Travel northward by either bus or private car and let the adventure unfold. If you're a commuter, you can find buses departing from Cubao bound directly for Sagada. Alternatively, you may opt for a bus headed to either Banaue or Baguio, where you can easily transfer to a local ride destined for Sagada. While the expedition may be lengthy and pose its own set of challenges, the rewards of witnessing the hanging coffins of Sagada are immeasurable. Embrace the enigmatic allure of Sagada, honor the time-honored traditions of its people, and allow the hanging coffins to leave a memorable mark of wonder and respect on your heart.
. . .
Reference: