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Arrernte Dreaming
The Arrernte Traditional Owners of Mparntwe (Alice Springs), have been in the
region since time immemorial. A culture that dates back over 60,000 years with a
spiritual connection that is echoed throughout the landscape. Stories of their dreamtime tell of the beginning
when Altyerrenge, ancestral figures created the landscape, its features and Arrernte Law.
The Arrernte people lived in Mparntwe, observing the laws, looking after the
country and teaching the children the Arrernte language and the importance of
their culture. It is told in stories passed down, that the landscape was shaped by
caterpillars, wild dogs, travelling boys, two sisters, euros and other ancestral
figures. As such there are many sites of importance and cultural significance to
the Traditional Owners such as Anthwerrke (Emily Gap) - a place where the
caterpillar beings came together.
Other sites of significance include Akeyulerre (Billy Goat Hill), Ntaripe (Heavitree
Gap), Atnelkentyarliweke (Anzac Hill) and Alhekulyele (Mount Gillen).
Some of the first Dreaming stories ever recorded were those of the Arrernte
(pronounced Arunda) people of Central Australia. (Alice Springs Its History &
The People Who Made It Peter Donovan 1988.)
For more information on the Aboriginal Culture in Mparntwe and Central
Australia, check out the
Alice Springs Town Council
website.
For more information about Indigenous Art and Culture, include information on
symbols and
galleries, check out
our Aboriginal Tourism.
For up-to-date info visit the local tourist centre. For Alice Springs
accommodation
click here: |
