Tia Seu Lupe, Aunu U Travel Guide

3.5 (10)

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

Explore Tia Seu Lupe, a historical site in Tafuna, American Samoa, featuring restored star mounds used for the traditional chiefly sport of pigeon catching. Dedicated as a historic monument in 1990, it offers a glimpse into ancient Samoan customs and architecture.

A brief summary to Tia Seu Lupe

M799+W22, Tafuna, Western District, AS

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tia Seu Lupe.

Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Take a guided tour if available; it enriches 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.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Fagatele Marine Sanctuary

Fogamaa Crater National Natural Landmark

National Park of American Samoa

Blunts Point Battery

National Park of American Samoa Visitor Center

Explore Tia Seu Lupe on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Tia Seu Lupe, mapped for you.

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. The taxi fare from the airport to Tia Seu Lupe is approximately $9.50. Note that taxi rates in Tafuna are not metered.

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. The site often features informative displays that provide context and insight into the historical events that shaped the region. Guided tours may be available, offering deeper knowledge and personal anecdotes that bring the history of Tia Seu Lupe to life.