The ancient ruined city on Pohnpei made up of artificial islets and canals, earning the nickname “Venice of the Pacific,” is Nan Madol.
Nan Madol lies in a lagoon off the southeastern coast of Pohnpei, in the Federated States of Micronesia. Its builders created a network of more than 90 artificial islets using massive blocks and columns of basalt, with canals separating the platforms and allowing movement by boat.
The name Nan Madol means “within the intervals,” referring to the waterways running between the ruins. The complex served as the ceremonial and political centre of the Saudeleur dynasty, whose rulers controlled Pohnpei for centuries. Elite residences, temples, mortuary areas and specialised work sites occupied different islets.
The royal mortuary islet of Nandauwas is among the most imposing parts of the site, with high stone walls surrounding a central tomb enclosure. Nan Madol was eventually abandoned as political power shifted, and its lack of fresh water and locally grown food made permanent residence difficult. Petra, Machu Picchu and Angkor Wat are also famous ancient sites, but none is located on Pohnpei or built as a canal-linked lagoon city.