Gef Pa'go: A Glimpse into Guam's Chamorro Heritage

Gef Pa'go Cultural Village, located in the historic village of Inalåhan, Guam, is a living museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the traditional Chamorro way of life. The village is modeled after a typical Chamorro community from the 1940s and 50s, offering visitors an immersive experience of Guam's rich cultural heritage.Elder Chamorros, the island's indigenous people, staff the village and demonstrate traditional arts, crafts, and cooking techniques. Visitors can learn about traditional methods of basket weaving, rope making, sea salt production, and coconut candy making. You can even try your hand at weaving or making coconut candy. The knowledgeable guides share stories of their childhoods and insights into Chamorro culture.The village consists of several ancient-style thatched-roof huts, each representing a different architectural style. These huts showcase various aspects of Chamorro life, from coconut processing and weaving to traditional cooking methods. One of the historic homes on site, the Leon Guerrero House, was built in 1901 and once housed the village commissioner and his 16 children.Near the entrance of Gef Pa'go stands a statue of Chief Gadao, a legendary leader from Inalåhan known for his strength and wisdom. According to legend, Chief Gadao challenged a rival chief to a contest of strength, with the two breaking a canoe in half while rowing in opposite directions.A visit to Gef Pa'go offers a tranquil escape and a chance to connect with Guam's history and culture. It's a place where visitors can appreciate the resilience and beauty of Chamorro culture and learn about the traditions that have shaped Guam's identity.