One of the largest municipalities in Timor-Leste, and the least populated, few people see much of Manatuto beyond driving through it between Dili and Baucau. It does however have a number of sights worth stopping for.

The coast of Subaun is home to one of the most scenic stretches of road between Dili and Baucau, with impressive headlands and a snake like road cut into the side of the steep hills. Unusually for Timor there is a parking area at the highest point to allow the view to be fully appreciated.

The largest town in Manatuto is worth a detour from the main road. At the town entrance is a large memorial to Manatuto priests, and Timorese heroes from Manatuto are shown at the nearby Paz E Reconciliaçao. Most people will briefly see the priest memorial as they follow the roundabout and miss the town.

The sizeable St. Anthony Church lies close to the waterfront. The original church dates from 1880. The current version was last renovated in 2009, but as of 2024 another renovation looks needed. There are 14 Stations of the Cross surrounding the church, along with a small shrine to the Virgin Mary.

Gruta de Santo António de Saututun is a man-made cave shrine with a statue of the Virgin Mary on a hill with good views.

It is close to the atmospheric ruins of the former home of the Portuguese colonial administrator.

Even better views (accessible via a slightly less rough road) can be found from the Estatua St. António lookout on another hill to the east.

Kafe BouAli is a popular place to stop for a coffee, and to enjoy the views.

Laleia Church is proclaimed by many as one of the most beautiful churches in Timor-Leste. This Portuguese designed, pastel pink church dates from 1933.

If the doors are open enjoy the colourful interior with a green and yellow stripped ceiling.

I’ve covered more sights in Manatuto in a post on the road between Dili and Baucau and there is great hiking up toward Mt Curi.