Nan Madol, Archaeological ruins in Madolenihmw, Federated States of Micronesia
The stone complex stretches across 92 artificial islets connected by canals, featuring massive basalt structures built upon coral reefs near Pohnpei Island.
During its peak around 1200 AD, Nan Madol served as the capital of the Saudeleur Dynasty, housing rulers who controlled the region through a centralized government system.
Local traditions attribute the construction of Nan Madol to two brothers, Olisihpa and Olosohpa, who created this sacred center for worshiping the god of agriculture.
Access to the site requires boat transportation from Temwen Island, and visitors need to bring water and supplies as no facilities exist within the complex.
The engineering methods used to transport and position the 90-ton basalt stones remain unexplained, making this Pacific megalithic site particularly intriguing for researchers.
Location: Madolenihmw
Website: https://nan-madol.com
GPS coordinates: 6.84194,158.33222
Latest update: May 26, 2025 19:06
This collection encompasses ancient stone monuments and sacred sites from across the globe, ranging from the Easter Island Moai to the Great Wall of China. The structures represent millennia of human engineering and include religious temples, fortifications, burial sites, and astronomical installations. Many of these locations retain cultural significance for local communities today. Examples include prehistoric sites such as Göbekli Tepe in Turkey and Skara Brae in the Orkney Islands, alongside monumental constructions like the Parthenon in Athens, Angkor Wat in Cambodia, and the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. The collection also features lesser known treasures including the Megalithic Temples of Malta, Nan Madol in Micronesia, and Great Zimbabwe. These sites provide insight into ancient cultures, religious practices, and architectural achievements that continue to draw visitors from around the world.
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