Seychelles Culture
Because of its mixture of many backgrounds, races and religions, the Seychelles culture is colourfully diverse. Throughout history, people of French, British, African, and Asian origin have settled in Seychelles bringing with them their own traditions. Some of these have remained and others evolved to make up what the Seychellois culture is today.
Art
The many local artists in Seychelles use a wide array of techniques in their work. Much painted artwork is tribute in itself to Seychelles lush backdrop and gorgeous scenery. Added to this are the unique talents of those artists that create their work using materials such as metal, wood, fabric and recycled materials, coconut shells, seashells and coral among other things. A browse through the local souvenir shops demonstrate the many talents of Seychellois artists and jewellery makers.
music & dance
Music and dance are integral to the Seychelles culture. It takes its roots from African, Malagassy and European cultures. The Sega, with its origins in Mauritius, is a popular dance which involves the shuffling of the feet and movement of the hips. The traditional Moutya dance is often performed during Creole Festivals, usually on the beach at night-time around bonfires. Together with other traditional dances such as the Kanmtole, the Kontredanse, and more modern types of music including jazz, reggae, country and western, and hip hop, Seychelles’ music is a rich blend of harmony.
architecture
Traditional Seychelles architecture is reminiscent of its colonial past. In the past, many houses were built with thatched roofs from coconut trees. Houses were typically built with steep roofs for the easier run off of rain. Thatched roofing was later replaced by corrugated iron sheets. Additionally, Seychellois houses are also known for their large verandas as much time is spent outside due to the warm weather.
the seychellois people
The Seychellois are friendly people and extremely welcoming to foreigners. As a destination that relies heavily on tourism, the Seychellois are more than happy to help, providing directions, explanations, or proudly showing off the islands and their culture.
The island lifestyle is much like what you would imagine – laid back and relaxed. It’s very different to the hustle and bustle of big cities where everyone keeps their heads down and goes about their business.
Due to the relatively small population, it’s more of an ‘everyone knows everyone’ situation and a quick trip into town means the locals are most definitely going to bump into a couple of people they know. It’s not unusual for people to stop in the streets and have long conversations with friends or acquaintances.
Additionally, for the Seychellois, extended family members are just as close and involved as direct, close relatives. It is also not uncommon for families to live in the same homes or in different homes on the same property.
The Seychellois, unsurprisingly, love picnics and parties on the beach. It’s common for birthday parties and other celebrations to become large weekend gatherings with lots of music, dancing and alcohol.
language
The most common language in Seychelles is Seychellois Creole, which is largely influenced by French. Together with Creole, French and English are also the official languages of Seychelles. In fact, English words are often incorporated into Creole language and most business meetings and publications are done in English.
Choose one of the below options to learn more about Seychelles –
History
Geography
Climate
Flora & Fauna
Culture
Cuisine
The Islands
Fact File
