Sentru Nasionál Chega! / Antiga Prisão da Comarca de Balide
The notorious Portuguese and Indonesian political prison, now transformed into a moving human rights memorial and national truth center.
Illustrative photo · Ministry of Tourism & Environment, Timor-Leste
Sentru Nasionál Chega! / Antiga Prisão da Comarca de Balide
The Former Comarca Balide Prison is a profoundly moving testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Surrounded by high stone walls and watchtowers, the whitewashed compound houses dark solitary cells where prisoners of conscience were once held. Today, the cells display survivor testimonies, historical photos, and vivid murals.
Videos about Sentru Nasionál Chega! / Antiga Prisão da Comarca de Balide
The story of this place
Built by the Portuguese colonial administration in the 1960s to house criminal and political prisoners, the Comarca de Balide became an interrogation and torture center during the Indonesian occupation. Following independence, the Truth, Reception, and Reconciliation Commission (CAVR) based its headquarters here, publishing its monumental 2,500-page report titled 'Chega!' (No More!).
Interviews & podcast
From people who’ve been
Tips & notes
• Chega! Truth Commission: Explore the findings of the CAVR truth and reconciliation commission documenting human rights history.
• Graffitied Cells: Poignant poetry and drawings left on cell walls by freedom fighters and student activists.
