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Roughly halfway between Honolulu and Guam,
Pohnpei is the capital of the Federated States
of Micronesia. Pohnpei Island is a large
volcanic island that lies 7 degrees north of
the equator and 1650km southeast of Guam.
Due to the abundance of rain, the island
boasts lush tropical forests, cascading
mountain streams, tumbling waterfalls, hidden
freshwater swimming pools and exquisite flora.
In fact Pohnpei is also known as the Garden
Island. For those intrigued by local legends
and traditions, a visit to the archaeological
site of Nan Madol is a must. Nan Madol
(sometimes called the Venice of the pacific),
is an ancient stone city, built on 100
artificial islets by the rulers of Pohnpei,
between 750 AD and 1500 AD.
The major buildings were constructed of
immense basalt logs six meters long, weighing
several tons brought to the islands by raft.
The stone fortress of steps, paths and temple
became the burial place for the Saudeleur
kings and priests.
Other historical sites include Spanish Wall,
Sokens Mass Grave, German Bell Tower,
Botanical Garden and Japanese tanks and
shrines.
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