The Timorese Resistance Archive & Museum is the best place to start to understand the tragic history of Timor-Leste. Opened in 2005, in the rebuilt former Portuguese Timor court of justice building, the museum tells the story of Timor-Leste from pre-colonial times, but the focus is on the brutal 24 year long Indonesian occupation. Photography is not allowed inside.

In Portuguese Chega! means stop or enough, and was the title of the report of the Timor-Leste Commission for Reception, Truth and Reconciliation. The Chega! Exhibition was established in 2016 in the Old Balide Prison, which was used during Portuguese and Indonesian times to house and torture thousands of Timorese. It is a deeply moving place to visit.

Opened in 2022, Galeria Memória Viva is dedicated to the eventful life of José Ramos-Horta, former and current President of Timor-Leste. He played an important role in the independence movement, and the many awards and recognitions he has received (though not his Nobel Peace Prize) are on display in his beautiful former home near the Dili waterfront.

Xanana Gusmão Reading Room is the home of a local non-profit organisation that aims to develop and support a public library service to inform and educate all. It was established in 2000 by Xanana Gusmao, a former resistence leader, President and Prime Minister of Timor-Leste. The complex includes a small museum, gallery, and library. In 2024 the site underwent a substantial rehabilitation funded by the Japanese government.

Dare Memorial Museum commemorates the Australian soldiers and the Timorese kriados who fought against the Japanese during WWII. There are information panels and an informative video that can be played.

Opposite the Timorese Resistance Archive & Museum, Centro Audiovisual Max Stahl Timor-Leste is an institution dedicated to preserving the audiovisual history of this young nation, and providing educational opportunities. Inside you are likely to find young Timorese using the facilities, and you can watch footage of the Santa Cruz Massacre filmed by British journalist Max Stahl.