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Xanana Gusmão Reading Room
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Landmark
The Xanana Gusmão Reading Room in Dili is a vital cultural institution that serves as a library, museum, and community center. Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century Portuguese colonial building, the structure features characteristic high ceilings and wide verandas. Established in 2000 by Kirsty Sword Gusmão, the center is dedicated to Xanana Gusmão, the resistance leader and the first president of independent Timor-Leste. The collection includes a library of over 10,000 books, rare historical documents pertaining to the independence struggle, and personal memorabilia from Gusmão's life. Beyond its role as a repository of history, the Reading Room has educational programs, art exhibitions, and internet access for the city's youth. It stands as a symbol of the nation's reconstruction and its commitment to fostering literacy and cultural engagement in the post-conflict era.
- Location: Timor-Leste
- Nearby: Aileu (11 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 29 | 29 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 243 | 203 | 120 | 54 | 33 | 21 | 8 | 4 | 5 | 13 | 54 | 167 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Xanana Gusmão Reading Room is a public library and cultural centre in Dili that can be visited for free. Visitors can read in the reading rooms or attend cultural events.
Typical hours
The library is typically open Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Saturday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Closed on Sundays. Changes may occur on holidays.
Photography
Photography is allowed in public areas, but without flash to avoid disturbing other readers. Ask staff if you wish to take specific shots of exhibits.
Time needed
A visit lasts between 30 minutes and an hour depending on interest. If attending an event, allow extra time accordingly.
Combine with
Combine your visit with a walk to the nearby Palacio do Governo or the Dili waterfront promenade. The Cristo Rei statue is also not far.
Getting there
The reading room is located in central Dili, near the port. It is easily walkable from most hotels in the centre; taxis are cheap and plentiful.
Insider tip
Ask about current exhibitions or readings, as local artists often perform. The library also has a small collection of books on Timorese history worth exploring.
Geography
Facts
- The institution was officially opened in 2000, shortly after the 1999 referendum.
- The building is a rare surviving example of late 19th-century Portuguese residential architecture.
- The library houses a collection of more than 10,000 titles in multiple languages.
- Personal items and letters written by Xanana Gusmão during his imprisonment are on display.
- It is located on Rua de Lecidere, facing the waterfront in central Dili.
- The center provides free public services, including a reference library and educational workshops.
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Sights in the town Xanana Gusmão Reading Room (1)
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Frequently asked questions
What is the purpose of the Xanana Gusmão reading room?
It is a place of education and documentation of the country's history.
Can I borrow books there?
No, it is primarily a reference library.
Is entry free?
Yes, access for readers is free.
Are documents available in English?
Yes, there is a selection of multilingual materials.
Do I need an appointment?
No, just stop by during opening hours.
Xanana Gusmão Reading Room: where is it located?
Xanana Gusmão Reading Room is located in Timor-Leste.
Xanana Gusmão Reading Room: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Xanana Gusmão Reading Room: why is it worth visiting?
The Xanana Gusmão Reading Room in Dili is a vital cultural institution that serves as a library, museum, and community center.
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History & landmarks
Tais Market
A vibrant market in Dili where local artisans sell traditional Timorese textiles.
Palace of Ashes
A historic building in Dili that was destroyed during the crisis years and serves as a memorial.
Dili Central Mosque
The largest Islamic place of worship in East Timor, a peaceful symbol of religious diversity.
Dili Lighthouse
A striking landmark from the Portuguese colonial era on the Dili waterfront.
Arte Moris Cultural Center
East Timor's first art school and gallery, which promoted local talent after independence.
Tasi Tolu Peace Park
An expansive protected area west of Dili, known for its three salt lakes.
One Dollar Beach
A popular stretch of coastline east of Dili, known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful views.
Nature
More places
Palace of the Governor
This striking building from the Portuguese colonial era is now the seat of the Government of East Timor.
Jardim Borja da Costa
A quiet park in Dili named after a famous Timorese poet, inviting visitors to relax.
Timorese Resistance Archive and Museum
This modern museum in Dili documents East Timor's long and painful path to independence.
Dili Waterfront Promenade
A tree-lined promenade along the Bay of Dili, popular for evening walks and recreation.
Dili Seaport
The historical main port of the capital, increasingly being transformed into a hub for passenger and cruise ships.
Chega! Exhibition (Balide Prison)
The former Portuguese prison later served as a detention center during the Indonesian occupation.
Jardim de Lecidere
A popular public park on the Dili waterfront with shady trees and recreation areas.
Santa Cruz Cemetery
This cemetery became infamous for the Santa Cruz massacre in 1991.