Old State House

The Old State House in Nauru is a historic structure that serves as a powerful symbol of the island nation's political sovereignty. Constructed in the late 1960s, it became the official residence and office of the President of Nauru following the country's independence in 1968. Its architecture reflects a colonial transition style, characterized by a blend of functional administrative design and elements suited for the tropical Pacific climate. Located in the Meneng district, the building has hosted numerous international dignitaries and was the site for signing critical treaties that defined Nauru's role on the global stage during the peak of its phosphate-driven economic prosperity. For decades, it stood as the heart of national administration and a monument to the Nauruan people's self-determination after periods of foreign oversight by various powers. Although presidential operations have since shifted, the Old State House remains a key historical site, preserving the memory of the early years of the republic. A visit to the area provides essential context for understanding Nauru's modern history and its journey toward establishing a unique political identity in the central Pacific.

Nearby cities

Baitsi

Baitsi is located in the north of Nauru and extends from the coast into the hilly interior.

Yaren

Yaren is the primary administrative district of Nauru and serves as the de facto capital.

Boe

Boe is a small but densely populated administrative district in southwest Nauru.

Aiwo

Aiwo is considered the main commercial hub of Nauru.

Buada Historic Settlement

The fertile inland area around Buada Lagoon, a center for agriculture and settlement on the island for centuries.

Buada

Buada is the only landlocked district of Nauru.

Meneng

Meneng is an extensive district in the southeast of Nauru.

Denigomodu

Denigomodu is the most populous district of Nauru.

Denigomodu Settlement

Denigomodu is the economic residential hub for phosphate industry workers.

Nibok

Nibok is a district on the western coast of Nauru.

Uaboe

Uaboe is a small coastal district in northwestern Nauru.

Anibare

Anibare is best known for the bay of the same name, which offers the island's finest swimming beach.

Ewa

Ewa is the northernmost point of Nauru.

Ijuw

Ijuw is the easternmost district of Nauru.

Anetan

Anetan is a district on the northern coast of Nauru.

History & landmarks

Moqua Caves

The Moqua Caves are a branching system of underground passages in coral limestone.

Yaren Police Station

The police station in Yaren is the headquarters for Nauru's police force.

Parliament House of Nauru

The Parliament House in Yaren is the political heart of the island nation.

Moqua Well

Moqua Well is a small underground lake in a limestone cave in Yaren.

Centenary Complex

A complex of buildings built to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the discovery of phosphate, now housing government offices.

BPC Administration Building

The former headquarters of the British Phosphate Commissioners, who controlled mining for decades.

Nature

Boe Coral Belt

The Boe Coral Belt is a narrow reef system on the west of the island.

More places

Civil Administration Ruins

The remains of administration buildings from the League of Nations mandate period, destroyed during World War II.

Nauru Airport Terminal

The international airport terminal is Nauru's gateway to the world.

Nauru Solar Plant

This solar facility is a central component of Nauru's renewable energy strategy.

Naoero Museum

Nauru's national museum, housing artifacts related to island history, phosphate mining, and World War II.

POW Memorial

A memorial dedicated to the memory of Nauruan civilians and foreign prisoners who suffered during the Japanese occupation.

Yaren Greenbelt

The Yaren Greenbelt consists of maintained green spaces and avenues lined with tropical trees.

Boe Coastal Flora

The flora of Boe includes a variety of beach morning glories and low-lying coastal plants.

Interior Lowland

This lower-lying area in the island's interior is surrounded by the higher edges of the coral plateau.