Nan Madol, Archaeological ruins in Madolenihmw, Federated States of Micronesia
Nan Madol is a complex of ruins on artificial islands in Madolenihmw, Pohnpei, connected by a network of waterways. Tall walls of stacked basalt columns form residential areas, tombs, and ceremonial platforms above the tidal waters of the lagoon.
Construction began between the 12th and 13th centuries under the rule of the Saudeleur Dynasty. The site was abandoned in the 17th century after a new ruling family took power.
The name translates to "place of the spaces between," referring to how waterways divide the platform structures. Stone columns rise from shallow lagoon floors where visitors can spot fish swimming beneath the foundations.
Tidal currents can make navigating the canals challenging, so hiring an experienced local guide is helpful. Some areas flood at high tide while others are best explored at low water levels.
The basalt columns were transported from Pohnpei Island across several kilometers without using wheels or draft animals. Some stone blocks weigh up to 50 tons and were precisely stacked without mortar or binding agents.
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