Temwen Island

Temwen Island is a small islet in the eastern lagoon of Pohnpei State that contains the archaeological complex commonly known as Nan Madol. The site consists of a network of man-made islets and basalt-walled platforms built in and around a tidal lagoon.

The complex comprises scores of artificial islets separated by narrow canals, with large basalt masonry walls and ruined stone enclosures. The stonework and canal layout are the principal attractions, drawing interest for their scale and construction technique.

Construction and intensive use of the site took place during the late first millennium CE under the Saudeleur dynasty and related local polities; the complex functioned as a ceremonial-political center and locus of elite power. After the collapse of the ruling dynasty the site was abandoned and fell into ruin.

Temwen sits within Pohnpei’s lagoon off the eastern shore of Pohnpei Island in the Federated States of Micronesia; the site is reached by boat from Pohnpei’s main settlements.

• UNESCO status: Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016 for its outstanding basalt masonry and unique system of artificial islets separated by tidal canals.
• Visitor access: Access is by boat from Pohnpei's main island; the ruins are fragile so visitors should follow local guidance and avoid climbing on unstable walls.

What to See #

• Central islets (Nan Madol): The central cluster of islets where the largest ruins and the main basalt walls survive; these islets include the principal ceremonial and administrative structures. The architectural complex covers a dispersed lagoon area formed by artificial islets and narrow canals.
• Royal tomb islets (Nan Douwas): A principal funerary islet that contains large mortuary enclosures and basalt wall constructions associated with the Saudeleur rulers. It is one of the best-preserved clusters of tomb structures within the complex.