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 unique 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 used for the traditional Samoan sport of pigeon catching. These unique stone structures offer insight into the island's cultural heritage and the chiefly practices of the past. Visitors can explore the site and learn about its significance in Samoan history.

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.
Take a guided tour if available to enrich your understanding of the site's historical significance.
Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the site may require some walking on uneven surfaces.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and surrounding landscapes.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Pago Pago International Airport, board a local bus heading towards Ottoville or Tafuna. Buses operate throughout the day, with services typically ending around 5:00 PM on weekdays and reduced service on Saturdays. Inform the driver that you wish to get off at the stop closest to the Holy Family Catholic Cathedral at Ottoville. From there, Tia Seu Lupe is a short walk away, located adjacent to the Fatuoaiga Catholic Church Center. Bus fare is approximately $2.50 or less. Exact change is recommended.
Taxi

Taxis are available at Pago Pago International Airport. Negotiate the fare before driving off. From the airport to Tia Seu Lupe, expect to pay approximately $9.50. Note that taxi services may also charge extra for luggage.
Walking

From the center of Tafuna, head towards the main road. Walk towards the Holy Family Catholic Cathedral at Ottoville. Tia Seu Lupe is a short walk away from the cathedral, located adjacent to the Fatuoaiga Catholic Church Center.

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 two distinct tiers of the ancient structure from a viewing platform. Tia Seu Lupe is located near the Holy Family Catholic Cathedral at Ottoville, within a historical park adjacent to the Fatuoaiga Catholic Church Center. The park is also next to the only patch of lowland rainforest still found on Tutuila Island, offering a serene atmosphere for reflection and appreciation of the cultural heritage. Today, 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.