Nan Madol in Pohnpei – Micronesia

There are many interesting tourist attractions in Nan Madol. In fact, the whole site can be considered a sightseeing spot. This ruined city is also one of the most important historical sites in Micronesia.

Location

The ruins can be found at the eastern shore of Pohnpei Island. Pohnpei makes up one of the Federated States of Micronesia. You can reach the island by taking a flight on Continental Airlines.

What to See

The ruins span an area over 18 sq km. An excursion will reveal some stone architecture set on a coral reef. This is by the Temwen Island shore. The main site is marked by stone walls. They cover an area measuring 0.5 km wide by 1.5 km long.

There are more than one hundred islets. Their borders are lined up by tidal canals. Madol Powe is the mortuary section. It has 58 islets at the northeastern section. These are some of the major tourist attractions in Nan Madol.

The tombs at Lemenkou, Karian and Peinkitel are covered by high walls. At the royal mortuary islet of Nandauwas, one will find walls 18–25 feet (5.5–7.6 m) high. There is said to be an escape tunnel commencing at the city. This is said to go into the reef and into the seas. However this has yet to be found by scuba divers.

History

According to carbon dating, building of the site started AD 1200. Archaeological diggings have indicated that occupation of the site began around 200 BC. Quarry sites on the island have been determined as well.

Aside from the ruins, the surrounding area is quite interesting. As far back as 1985, the site had already been proclaimed a National Historical Landmark. As the site has grown in popularity, efforts to protect the site have increased.

Cost

Buying meals at Micronesia can be very affordable. The cheapest restaurants will have meals for 10 USD. The fast food types can be bought for 5 USD. Taxi fares come up to 1 USD.

Other Info

Sokehs Rock is a rock outcropping. If you hike to the peak, you will be rewarded with a spectacular view of the island. You will also see some vintage World War II firearms at the peak.

After you visit the tourist attractions in Nan Madol, you can check out the Spanish Wall at Kolonia, the capital of the island. This is all that remains of the ancient Spanish fortification.