Nan Madol

Nan Madol is in Pohnpei Island, a member of the Federated States of Micronesia. It is a ruined city and it also served as the capital city for the Saudeleur Dynasty. The city is also called as “Venice of the Pacific” and it is also a chain of artificial islands with a group of canals.

Nan Madol has a population of about 1000 and it is a special place for the mortuary activities performed by priests. The mortuary block features 58 islands located to the northeast of Nan Madol. A major part of the islands are occupied by the priests and some islands are used for preparing food and oil.

The city is bounded with high walls that measures 7.6 meters high, in addition there are a number of tombs located in the city belonging to the 15th century. The city has no fresh water and food source and one must go to the other island to gather food and water.

Nan Madol features an archaeological site that includes the ruins of stone architecture on the Coast of Temwen Island. The site measures 18 square kilometers and the early constructions dates here to 200 BC. These ruins were also named as Micronesia’s National Historic Landmark in the year 1985.

Nan Madol