Falemauga Caves, Prehistoric cave complex in Tuamasaga district, Samoa
The Falemauga Caves consist of lava tunnels with circular entrances measuring 50 feet in diameter, located 1,555 feet above sea level on Upolu island.
New Zealand anthropologist Derek Freeman conducted extensive archaeological excavations in the caves during 1941, documenting his findings in the Journal of the Polynesian Society.
The name Falemauga combines two Samoan words: fale meaning house and mauga meaning mountain, reflecting the local understanding of these natural formations.
The cave system divides into two sections: a confined northern passage measuring 1,400 feet with multiple branches and a 150-foot southern section.
Archaeologists discovered over 150 volcanic rock platforms inside the caves, along with stone axes, marine shells, and evidence of traditional umu cooking sites.
GPS coordinates: -13.91611,-171.82222
Latest update: March 6, 2025 15:53
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