Mourning the loss of loved ones is an intimate process. It varies from person to person and culture to culture. For each of us, it’s a matter of celebrating someone’s life and coping with our pain.
For the Igorot tribe in the Philippines, this process involves putting their loved ones to rest high along the walls of cliffs or inside caves.
The tradition dates back 2,000 years.
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The small coffins are made from one piece of wood and sometimes require breaking the bones of the deceased in order to fit.
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The tribe believes this will ensure their loved ones a safe passage to heaven.
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The method is most practical for keeping the deceased safe from floods and animals.
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At Echo Valley in Sagada, you can find coffins as old as 100 years.
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This type of hanging coffin is found in other cultures as well across Asia, including parts of China and Indonesia. It’s definitely an amazing way to remember your loved ones and embrace your communal history.
