Aimeliik Terraces

The Aimeliik Terraces on Babeldaob Island are among the most significant examples of prehistoric earthworks in Micronesia. These massive structures consist of hillsides sculpted into regular, stepped terraces, a feat of engineering achieved between 500 and 1000 AD. The scale of the terraces suggests they were constructed by a highly organized and populous society, long before Western contact. Archaeologists continue to debate their primary function; some believe they were used for intensive agriculture, specifically taro cultivation, while others argue they served as defensive fortifications or ceremonial sites. Some individual terraces rise to over 100 meters in height, representing a profound human modification of the natural volcanic landscape. Exploring the site allows visitors to appreciate the architectural ambition of Palau's ancestors. From the summits of these man-made slopes, one can enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the Babeldaob interior and the surrounding coastline, making it both a historical landmark and a scenic destination.

Nearby cities

Airai

Airai is the second most populous settlement in Palau.

Koror Business District

This district forms the economic heart of Palau.

Koror

Koror is the most populous city in Palau and served as the national capital until 2006.

Meyuns

Meyuns is a significant village located on Ngerekebesang Island.

Kloulklubed

Kloulklubed is the main village on Peleliu Island.

Ulimang

Ulimang is the administrative center of Ngaraard State on Babeldaob.

Mengellang

Mengellang is the main village of Ngarchelong State at the northern tip of Babeldaob.

Ngerulmud Administrative Center

As the seat of government, Ngerulmud is the center for public spending and national administration.

Ngerulmud

Ngerulmud has been the capital of Palau since 2006.

Ngchesar

Ngchesar is a quiet settlement on the east coast of Babeldaob.

Melekeok

Melekeok is a village on the east coast of Babeldaob.

Aimeliik

Aimeliik is a settlement in southwestern Babeldaob.

Ngiwal

Ngiwal is a village in eastern Babeldaob.

Ngardmau

Ngardmau is a settlement on the west coast of Babeldaob.

Kayangel

Kayangel is the northernmost inhabited settlement in Palau, located on a coral atoll.

History & landmarks

Palau National Stadium

The Palau National Stadium in Koror is the main venue for sporting events and national celebrations in the country.

Bai ra Airai

This traditional meeting house, over 130 years old, is the oldest of its kind in Palau and a major cultural monument.

Nature

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Ngaremeduu Bay

Ngaremeduu Bay is the largest estuary and mangrove ecosystem in Palau.

Ngaremeduu Conservation Area

This area encompasses the largest estuarine ecosystem in Palau, featuring mangrove forests and seagrass beds.

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Ngermid Bay

A sheltered bay featuring high coral diversity, notably resilient to higher water temperatures.

Ngerekebesang Hill

Ngerekebesang Hill is the highest elevation on Ngerekebesang Island.

Malakal Peak

This hill on Malakal Island overlooks the most important harbor in Palau.

More places

Aimeliik Power Plant

The Aimeliik Power Plant is the largest power generation facility in Palau.

Ngatpang Aquaculture Center

This center specializes in the sustainable farming of seafood.

Japan-Palau Friendship Bridge

This bridge connects the islands of Koror and Babeldaob and is a vital transport artery.

Koror-Babeldaob Bridge

The KB Bridge is the nation's most vital transport artery.

Imeong Village Ruins

The ancient village of Imeong houses significant stone platforms and terraces that once formed the cultural center of Ngeremlengui.

Airai Solar Farm

This solar farm represents Palau's commitment to renewable energy.

Japanese Communications Center

This ruin of a massive reinforced concrete building in Airai served as a communications hub for the Japanese military during WWII.

Etpison Museum

The Etpison Museum documents Palauan cultural heritage through artifacts and historic photos.