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Malietoa Tombs

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Malietoa Tombs in Afega and on the Mulinu'u Peninsula are the final resting places for the holders of one of Samoa's four paramount titles, the Malietoa lineage. These burial sites are architecturally significant, combining traditional stone structures with late 19th and early 20th-century European influences. Particularly notable is the tomb of Malietoa Laupepa, who reigned during the turbulent period of colonial rivalries between Germany, Great Britain, and the USA and passed away in 1898. The sites serve not only as cemeteries but also as ceremonial centers where the continuity of Samoan sovereignty is celebrated. The design of the tombs reflects the status of the deceased, often elevated on massive stone platforms known as 'Paepae'. For the Samoan people, these locations are sacred symbols of national pride and historical identity, recalling the complex diplomatic efforts for independence. The maintenance of the grounds is the responsibility of the respective clans and is subject to strict cultural protocols.

Location: Samoa
Top sights: Mulinu'u Congregational Christian Church · Samoa Ecumenical Centre · Sogi Congregational Christian Church
Nearby: Moata'a (4 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	27	27	27	27	27	27	28
Rain mm	258	241	165	169	128	91	75	56	92	141	213	229

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Malietoa Tombs are publicly accessible monuments in Mulinuu. Visitors can view the burial sites of the ruling dynasty from the outside. Access to the immediate area is allowed.

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Typical hours

The tombs are accessible during the day but have no fixed opening hours. It is recommended to visit during daylight hours.

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Photography

Photography is allowed. Please behave respectfully and avoid climbing on or touching the tombs.

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Time needed

A visit typically lasts 15 to 30 minutes. The tombs are relatively compact but of great historical importance.

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Combine with

Combine the visit with the nearby Malietoa Tanumafili II Tomb and other monuments in Mulinuu. The Samoa Cultural Village is also worth a visit.

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Getting there

The tombs are located in Mulinuu, easily reachable by car or on foot from Apia center. Parking is available in the area.

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Insider tip

Read up on the Malietoa dynasty before visiting - the knowledge deepens the experience. Respect the site as a national symbol.

Geography

Coordinates

-13.82420, -171.78110

Facts

Malietoa Laupepa was interred at Mulinu'u in August 1898.
The title 'Malietoa' literally translates to 'brave warrior'.
The burial sites at Mulinu'u are located on a narrow peninsula near Apia.
Malietoa Tanumafili II, who died in 2007, was the last head of state from this lineage.
Traditionally, the graves are decorated with white coral stones.
The tombs are part of a historical district that also includes the Parliament.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Malietoa Tanumafili II Tomb<1 km · SEExplore →

Central Bank Building2 km · NEExplore →

Vaiusu Tai2 km · SExplore →

Former Mau Headquarters2 km · EExplore →

Vaitele Industrial Zone3 km · SEExplore →

Samoa College3 km · EExplore →

Lepua3 km · NEExplore →

Nu'u Agricultural Center4 km · SEExplore →

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 Malietoa Tombs (10)

Mulinu'u Congregational Christian Church

Congregational Christian church in Mulinu'u, Apia. Holds services and community events.

Samoa Ecumenical Centre⛪ church

Ecumenical centre in Apia, bringing together different Christian denominations. Services and dialogue.

Sogi Congregational Christian Church

Congregational church in the Sogi district of Apia. Regular services for the congregation.

Western Samoa 1962 Independence Memorial

Monument in Apia commemorating Western Samoa's independence in 1962. Symbol of national sovereignty.

Ceremonial 21-Gun Salute Gift from New Zealand

Gift from New Zealand to Samoa: a cannon for 21-gun salutes. Located in Apia.

Worship Centre Christian Church

Christian church in Apia, serving as a worship centre. Open to visitors.

Mulinu'u Nature Reservce

Nature reserve in Mulinu'u, Apia. Protects local flora and fauna.

Mulinu'u Point Nature Reserve

Nature reserve at Mulinu'u Point, Apia. Coastal vegetation and birdlife.

Samoa Islamic Center

Islamic centre in Apia. Place for prayers and religious gatherings for the Muslim community.

Apia Samoa Temple

Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Apia. Consecrated Mormon building.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Who were the Malietoa?

A significant royal house in the history of Samoa.

Can you visit the tombs?

Yes, with respect for the site.

How long does a visit take?

About 15-20 minutes.

Do I need a permit?

Usually, just asking politely is enough.

Is the place family-friendly?

Yes, for a short, respectful stop.

Malietoa Tombs: where is it located?

Malietoa Tombs is located in Samoa.

Malietoa Tombs: what is there to see?

Highlights include Mulinu'u Congregational Christian Church, Samoa Ecumenical Centre, Sogi Congregational Christian Church.

Malietoa Tombs: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Malietoa Tombs: why is it worth visiting?

The Malietoa Tombs in Afega and on the Mulinu'u Peninsula are the final resting places for the holders of one of Samoa's four paramount titles, the Malietoa lineage.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →