Tia Seu Lupe: Ancient Pigeon-Catching Mounds

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Explore ancient Samoan traditions at Tia Seu Lupe, a historical site featuring restored star mounds used for the sport of pigeon catching.

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Tia Seu Lupe

Tia Seu Lupe is a historical site in Tafuna, American Samoa, featuring restored star mounds. These stone structures were once platforms for the chiefly sport of pigeon catching. Today, visitors can explore the site and learn about Samoan traditions.

A brief summary to Tia Seu Lupe

M799+W22, Tafuna, Western District, AS

Local tips

Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the site may require some walking on uneven surfaces.
Bring a camera to capture the architecture and surrounding landscapes.

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Getting There

Walking

Tia Seu Lupe is located near the Holy Family Catholic Cathedral at Ottoville, adjacent to the Fatuoaiga Catholic Church Center. From the center of Tafuna, head towards the main road. The site is located in a small park-like area.
Public Transport

Local buses ('aiga' buses) operate throughout the day on Tutuila Island. These buses travel from various villages to the bus depot at Fagatogo. You can catch a bus from nearly anywhere on the side of the road by waving it down. The bus fare from the airport to Pago Pago is approximately US$0.75. From the bus depot, you can take another bus towards Tafuna and ask the driver to drop you off near the Fatuoaiga Catholic Church Center.
Taxi

Taxis are available in Tafuna. Negotiate the fare before starting your trip. A taxi from Pago Pago International Airport to Tia Seu Lupe is approximately US$9.50.

Discover more about Tia Seu Lupe

Tia Seu Lupe, meaning "earthen mound to catch pigeons," is an ancient historical site located in Tafuna, American Samoa. This site features restored star mounds, which are stone structures believed to have been platforms used for the chiefly sport of pigeon catching. For centuries, pigeon-snaring was a popular activity among Samoan chiefs, who used these mounds to practice netting their prized, feathered catch.The Tia Seu Lupe Historic Monument was dedicated in May 1990 and is maintained by the American Samoa Department of Parks and Recreation. The restored pigeon-catching mound resembles the later marae of Eastern Polynesia. Visitors can observe the structure from a viewing platform. Informative displays provide context and insight into the historical events that shaped the region.Tia Seu Lupe serves not only as a tourist attraction but also as a gathering place for locals, fostering a sense of community and connection to their roots. The historical park is located next to the only patch of lowland rainforest still found on Tutuila Island.