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Asau Star Mound

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Ancient Star Mound of Asau on Savai'i island, locally known as 'Tia Seu Lupe', is a remarkable archaeological site that dates back to Samoa's prehistoric era. These star-shaped stone and earth platforms were constructed by the elite of ancient Samoan society for the ceremonial sport of pigeon snaring, a highly ritualized activity that showcased a chief's status, patience, and skill. The mound at Asau is notable for its distinct geometric design with multiple radiating arms, leading some researchers to suggest they also held astronomical or navigational significance. Historically, these sites were hubs for social gatherings and religious ceremonies, where the pigeon was viewed as a sacred connection to the spirit world. As one of the best-preserved examples of its kind, the Asau Star Mound provides vital evidence of the complex social hierarchies and monumental engineering capabilities of Samoa before European contact. Today, it stands as a significant cultural monument, highlighting the unique intersection of sport, spirituality, and environment in ancient Polynesian life.

Location: Samoa
Top sights: Mormons · Asau Church · Asau Seaside Resort
Nearby: Vaisala (8 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	28	28	28	28	28	28	27	27	27	28	28	28
Rain mm	262	254	166	154	129	101	81	64	89	141	208	220

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Asau Star Mound is a free-standing ruin viewable from the outside. Climbing the mound is possible but requires caution.

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Typical hours

The site has no fixed opening hours and is accessible during daylight. Visit in daylight to see the stone structures clearly.

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Photography

The star mound gives unique photo subjects, especially from a bird's-eye view. Photography is allowed anytime.

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Time needed

Viewing takes about 20-30 minutes. Allow extra time for travel from the nearest town.

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Combine with

Combine your visit with the nearby village of Asau and its beach. The Savaii area has other historical sites.

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Getting there

The star mound is near Asau on Savaii, reachable by car or taxi. A short walk leads from the road to the site.

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Insider tip

Bring a drone to capture the star shape from the air. Ask permission in the village beforehand.

Geography

Coordinates

-13.52000, -172.63000

Facts

Star mounds are unique architectural features found in Samoa and Tonga.
Asau is a key historical district on the northwestern tip of Savai'i.
The mounds were used for the prestigious sport of 'Seu Lupe' (pigeon catching).
They are constructed from local basalt stones and packed soil.
Over 80 star mounds have been identified across the Samoan islands.
These structures date back to the late prehistoric period, around 1000-1400 AD.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Asau Historic Port<1 km · SWExplore →

Vaisala Historic Mission3 km · NExplore →

Sataua Ancient Mounds7 km · SWExplore →

Vaisala8 km · SExplore →

Aopo Lava Tube Refuge9 km · NExplore →

Mount Olotapu9 km · NEExplore →

Neiafu Archaeological Mound10 km · SExplore →

Aopo Lava Field12 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Asau Star Mound (4)

Mormons

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Asau, a place of worship.

Asau Church

Church in Asau, serving the local Christian community.

Asau Seaside Resort

Beach resort in Asau, offering accommodation and Pacific Ocean access.

Auala Congregational Christian Church

Congregational Christian church in Auala, a Protestant place of worship.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is a star mound?

An ancient ceremonial structure made of lava stone.

Can you enter the site freely?

You should ask for permission from the village elders.

Are there tours?

Local guides often offer interesting insights.

Is the hike difficult?

No, it is an easy walk.

Is there parking there?

Parking by the roadside is possible.

Asau Star Mound: where is it located?

Asau Star Mound is located in Samoa.

Asau Star Mound: what is there to see?

Highlights include Mormons, Asau Church, Asau Seaside Resort.

Asau Star Mound: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Asau Star Mound: why is it worth visiting?

The Ancient Star Mound of Asau on Savai'i island, locally known as 'Tia Seu Lupe', is a remarkable archaeological site that dates back to Samoa's prehistoric era.

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