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Tia Seu Lupe: Ancient Pigeon-Catching Mounds

Explore Tia Seu Lupe in Tafuna, American Samoa, where ancient star mounds reveal the fascinating history of Samoan pigeon-catching traditions.

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Tia Seu Lupe is a historical site in Tafuna, American Samoa, featuring restored star mounds used in the ancient Samoan sport of pigeon catching. Visitors can explore the two-tiered structure and learn about Samoan heritage in a serene park setting.

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; 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 architecture and surrounding landscapes.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Tia Seu Lupe is located near the Holy Family Catholic Cathedral at Ottoville. From the cathedral, walk along the road towards the Fatuoaiga Catholic Church Center. The historical park, where Tia Seu Lupe is located, is adjacent to the church center. The site is easily visible and accessible from the road.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses, known as 'aiga' buses, operate throughout Tafuna. These buses travel from various villages to the bus depot at Fagatogo, with unscheduled services. You can catch a bus heading towards Tafuna and ask the driver to stop near the Holy Family Catholic Cathedral in Ottoville. From there, it's a short walk to Tia Seu Lupe. Bus fares typically cost no more than $2.50 one way.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Tafuna, though Uber is not. You can find taxis at the airport or the Pago Pago market. Negotiate the fare before starting your trip. A taxi from Pago Pago International Airport to Tia Seu Lupe would cost approximately $9.50. From other locations in Tafuna, expect to pay around $1 per mile.

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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. Informative displays provide context and insight into the historical events that shaped the region, enhancing the visitor experience.

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