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Tuvalu

Caves of Nanumanga

Underwater caves off Nanumanga's northern shore

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

Location

About

The Caves of Nanumanga, discovered in 1986 off the northern shore of Nanumanga, Tuvalu, are significant underwater structures that have sparked interest due to a local legend of a 'large house under the sea.' These caves, sometimes referred to as the Fire Caves of Nanumanga, are currently submerged, highlighting significant historical changes in sea levels. The presence of the caves suggests habitation or use during periods when sea levels were lower, potentially spanning periods from the Upper Paleolithic to Neolithic. This site contributes valuable insights into environmental changes and human adaptation over millennia, particularly in the context of Polynesian history and culture.

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Caves

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Tuvalu
Source
Wikipedia