Seychelles: Culture, People and Customs on the Islands

An incredible mix of cultures, where everything is completely different from other parts of the world: architecture, music, dance, food, customs and traditions. What does a tourist need to know before traveling to the fabulous Seychelles?

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Population of the Seychelles

The population of Seychelles is quite small - about 100 thousand people, which makes it one of the least populated countries in Africa. Of the 115 islands that make up the country, only eight are inhabited. Most of the population lives on the main island of Mahe, followed by Praslin and La Digue.

The main ethnic groups in Seychelles are:

• Creoles: about 90% of the total population of the islands. Seychellois are considered to be a people of mixed descent, who may have French, British, Middle Eastern, Chinese and African roots.
• Indo-Seychellois: They are an ethnic minority of people of Indian origin who constitute about 6% of the total population. Most of them are Hindus who hail from Tamil Nadu. There are also Indian Jains, Muslims, Christians, etc.
• Sino-Seychellois: Also an ethnic minority, Chinese immigrants arrived from Mauritius in the 18th century. Their numbers are estimated at 1,000, making them one of the smallest Chinese groups in Africa.

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Religion in Seychelles

The population professes many religions. This is allowed by the government of Seychelles, as the constitution guarantees freedom of religion and expression. The government does not give preference to any religion. There is freedom of expression without pressure.

Most people in Seychelles are Christians. The Roman Catholic Church is the largest denomination in the country (82% of the population). Other minor denominations include the Anglican Church (6.4% of the population), Seventh-day Adventists, Pentecostals, and various Protestant denominations.

The second religion is Hinduism, which can be attributed to the Indo-Seychellois population of the country. It is professed by 2.5% of the population. Hinduism is followed by Islam (1.6%).

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Family structure and education

Unlike many other African countries, Seychelles is traditionally matriarchal, with women in the working class having higher status than men. Social cohesion is highly valued here. This is reflected in the way close relatives support each other at significant events and occasions. Weddings and funerals in Seychelles are traditionally important family gatherings and celebrations.

Education is highly valued in Seychelles and families try to give their children the opportunity to get a good profession. The government provides free education to children up to the age of 18.

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Architecture of Seychelles

The Seychelles have been influenced by European, Middle Eastern, Asian and African traditions. The architecture of the islands reflects the colonial past and has a rather distinctive but interesting style. Traditional architecture included laka and thatched roofs. Townhouses often resembled the Victorian era and had roofs made of corrugated iron sheets. The houses usually had kitchens located outside. However, these traditional dwellings have become less common these days and have been replaced by new flat-roofed houses, as in other former British colonies.

Creole architecture. This is a unique architectural style in the Seychelles, combining elements of African, French and British architecture. The houses are made of wood and have steep roofs, wide verandas and colorful shutters painted in bright colors.

French Colonial Architecture: The Seychelles were a French colony from 1756 to 1814. The influence of French colonial architecture can still be seen in buildings such as the Supreme Court of Seychelles and the Clock Tower in Victoria.

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Fashion in Seychelles

Fashion is also heavily influenced by numerous multicultural traditions, stretching from Africa to Asia and even Europe.

The Koste is a traditional skirt worn by women in the Seychelles. The rectangular piece of fabric is wrapped around the waist and tied at the side to form a skirt. The fabric is usually brightly colored and patterned, and can be made from a variety of textiles, such as cotton, silk, and synthetic blends. The Koste is an integral part of Seychelles culture and is often worn at weddings, festivals, and cultural events.

The Kazak and Penwar are traditional styles of men's dress in the Seychelles. The Kazak is a loose shirt made of lightweight cotton or linen. It is often brightly coloured and worn untucked. The Penwar is a loose-fitting pair of trousers with an elasticated waistband or drawstring. Penwars are often made of lightweight cotton or linen and may be plain or patterned.

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Traditional dances of Seychelles

Dance to the African rhythm Seychellois style. Here are some colorful dances worth watching:

• Moutia is a traditional dance of the Seychelles. It has its roots in the history of African slavery and is performed at all celebrations.
• Sega is another traditional but exotic dance style from the Seychelles. It is performed by women wearing wide frilled skirts.
• Kanmtole is a ballet inspired by European culture.
  
  

Arts and crafts in Seychelles

The Seychelles have few original works of art and crafts. But there is a village that is a reminder of the islands' rich cultural heritage.

The village is home to the Gran Case plantation house, built around 1870, and the Lacaz Rose, a replica of a servants' house typical of colonial times. There are plenty of handcrafted jewellery, coconut products and batik clothing. You will have the opportunity to buy colourful, authentic souvenirs.

Seychelles Cuisine

Seychelles cuisine reflects the flavours of France, Africa, India and Europe. Being an island country, the cuisine is based on fish and shellfish, as well as coconut, mango and breadfruit. Ladob and shark curry are delicious dishes that are a must-try in Seychelles. Ladob, served as a dessert, is a creamy sauce made from sweet potato, plantain, coconut milk, nutmeg and vanilla.

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Holidays and celebrations in Seychelles

In addition to the standard set of holidays known and celebrated throughout the world, the islanders have their own traditions:

• Seychelles Carnival, which takes place in April.
• National Day (18 June): Celebrates the culture and identity of the Seychelles, with music, dance and food.
• Independence Day (June 29).
• The Kreol Festival, held annually in October, celebrates Seychellois Creole culture.
• The underwater festival Sub Indian Ocean Seychelles (SUBIOS) takes place in November.

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