Navala Village is one of only a few places on Viti Levu, Fiji where traditional, Fijian architecture survived. Some time ago, inhabitants of three mountain villages moved to this location and decided not to use modern building materials when constructing their bures (Fijian huts). Today, chief keeps control how new huts are constructed, making sure that everything is with respect to old tradition.
Bure is a very simple traditional hut. Not many things can be found inside. The whole family sleeps on mats that cover floor. Amazingly each hut has one big bed. It is used not for sleeping, but just to keep their clothing. Missionaries must have introduced beds, but South Pacific tradition is stronger.
