Comoros culture

Comoros culture culture food and festivals 

Comorians are typically from ancient African origins. Locals practice Sunni Islam, and the society is matrilineal. The presence of Islam can be traced back as early as the 11th century. Comorians give importance to family ties, and this has made the population a united cultural and social group. Conflicts are more a result of poor social, political and economic management than ethnic clashes.

The history of the islands is characterized by colonization, slave trade, sultanate battles, and Madagascan raids. The Africans first colonized the Comoros islands in the 8th century with the presence of Islam as a civilization and religion recorded as far back as the 11th century. Between that time and the 15th century, Comoros saw the evolution of its chiefdoms into sultanates as more and more Muslim Arabs set up camp on the islands. Commerce flourished and slave trade became commonplace during what is known as the era of the “battling sultans,” which continued for another four centuries.

Comorians are strong followers of Islam, and religious celebrations are widely observed. The local culture is a hodgepodge of Arab, French and African influences. The residents have a strong regard for music and other performance arts and local artisans are skilled in sculpture, pottery, embroidery, and basketry. Diversity is also evident in the many prevalent languages used on the islands, including French, Comorian, Arabic, and Swahili.

Islam is the dominant religion, and it influences the Comoros’ culture and traditions deeply. Customs should be respected, though locals are generally tolerant of outside cultures. Many people also believe in earthly spirits and the power of djinn, which is derived from African, Arab and Madagascan traditions. There is also a Roman Catholic minority. Alcohol is not banned, though discretion should be used when drinking and don’t make too big a deal out of it.

Used by Women for beauty purposes, masks are made of scented plants and flowers, crunched with a piece of coral on a volcanic rock. This mask is a traditional make-up with some hydrating  and UV protection properties.