Bai ra Airai

The Bai ra Airai is a masterpiece of traditional Micronesian architecture and stands as Palau's oldest and most significant meeting house. Located in the village of Airai, this structural marvel is over 130 years old and was constructed entirely without the use of metal nails. Instead, its massive hardwood beams were fitted together with extraordinary precision using traditional joinery techniques. The entire building is set upon an elevated stone platform, a design choice that has helped preserve the wood from ground moisture for over a century. The most striking features of the Bai are the intricate carvings and paintings on the gables and interior rafters. These lively depictions serve as a visual record of Palauan mythology, historical events, and social codes. Historically, the Bai was the exclusive domain of the village's high chiefs, serving as a venue for governance, judicial decisions, and sacred ceremonies. Today, it remains a powerful symbol of Palauan identity, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the sophisticated craftsmanship and communal traditions that have defined the archipelago's history long before modern contact.

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.

Palau Capitol Building

The Capitol Building in Ngerulmud is the official seat of the government of Palau.

Ngerulmud Monoliths

Near the current seat of government are ancient stone structures that indicate the historical importance of this location.

Nature

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Ngermid Bay

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

Babeldaob Mangroves

The mangrove forests of Babeldaob fringe large portions of the main island's coastline.

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

Airai Bai

The Airai Bai is a traditional men's meeting house over 170 years old.

Airai Stone Path

The Airai Stone Path is a historic connecting road made of large stone slabs.

Japanese Communications Center

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

Airai Solar Farm

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

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.

Etpison Museum

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

Ngatpang Aquaculture Center

This center specializes in the sustainable farming of seafood.