The traditional house from Nias is constructed from various types of heavy tropical woods, and without the use of any nails. It is built on poles and has a characteristically tall roof. The traditional house has made Nias the focus of attention, for quite a few international architects, who come to study this form of construction.

The house is built in accordance with the traditional structure of society, almost like a micro cosmos of the world in its ideal form. The size and shape is determined by the social status of the owners and the floors are built on varying elevations, in accordance with the class division within the nobility, the bourgeois and ordinary citizens. It has been argued that the outer form was inspired by the Dutch merchant ships of the early seventeenth century, this could relate to the influence of the very first trading connections that occurred with the local population and how it left a lasting impression on the society and culture in general.

With the help of Dr. Agner Møller, the National Museum of Denmark bought the chiefs house in Hillimondregeraja, and therefore saved important carvings from advancing decay. In spite of overwhelming odds he completed the difficult logistical task of transporting the objects to Copenhagen, where they are kept to this day.

VISIT THE HOUSE
Here you have the opportunity to visit a virtual sight of the Chiefs house, click on the objects to learn more.