UNESCO World Heritage SiteUNESCO Heritage
Tuvalu

Caves of Nanumanga

Underwater caves off Nanumanga's northern shore

Location

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Historical Context

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.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Temporal Epochs

Historical Timeline

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Sea Level Change

Not specified

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

category

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Caves
Knowledge Base

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Reference

Details

Country

Tuvalu

Coordinates

-6.27° N, 176.32° E