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Tia Seu Lupe: Ancient Pigeon-Catching Mound

Explore Tia Seu Lupe in Tafuna, American Samoa: a window into ancient Samoan traditions and the unique sport of pigeon-catching.

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Tia Seu Lupe is a historical site in Tafuna, American Samoa, featuring a restored pigeon-catching mound. This ancient structure, resembling Polynesian marae, offers a glimpse into Samoan chiefly sport and traditions. Visitors can observe the two-tiered structure from a viewing platform.

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.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Holy Family Catholic Cathedral in Ottoville, walk along the main road towards the Tafuna International Airport. Tia Seu Lupe is located behind a statue of St. Mary near the Catholic cathedral at Fatuoaiga, in a historical park adjacent to the Fatuoaiga Catholic Church Center. The walk is short and easy.

  • Public Transport

    From anywhere in Tafuna, board a local bus heading towards Ottoville. Inform the driver you wish to stop near the Holy Family Catholic Cathedral. From the bus stop, Tia Seu Lupe is a short walk. Bus fares are typically around $1 - $3 depending on the distance.

  • Taxi

    From Tafuna International Airport, take a taxi to the Holy Family Catholic Cathedral in Ottoville. Tia Seu Lupe is located nearby, behind the cathedral. A taxi ride should cost approximately $10 - $15. Make sure the driver is aware of the location.

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Discover more about Tia Seu Lupe

Tia Seu Lupe, located in Tafuna, American Samoa, is a significant historical site showcasing ancient Samoan traditions. The site features a restored 'tia seu lupe,' which translates to 'earthen mound to catch pigeons.' This was a popular chiefly sport where chiefs competed for the hand of another chief's daughter or wife by trying to capture the most pigeons. Archaeologists believe the stone structure served as platforms for this unique sport. The restored mound bears resemblance to the later marae of Eastern Polynesia. Dedicated as a historic monument in May 1990, Tia Seu Lupe sits on a 0.2-hectare plot on the Tafuna Plain, near the Holy Family Catholic Cathedral at Ottoville. Visitors can explore the site and observe the two distinct tiers of the ancient structure from a viewing platform. The historical park is located next to the only patch of lowland rainforest still found on Tutuila Island, offering a blend of cultural and natural attractions.

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