Cultural heritage sites in Palau

Cultural Heritage of Palau

Palau’s cultural landscape spans centuries of indigenous traditions and intense 20th-century history. This selection includes the ancient Badrulchau stone monoliths in Ngerchelong and the Meteu 'L Klechem heritage site. It also highlights the islands' strategic role in World War II, featuring the Japanese Communications Center ruins and various memorials on Peleliu. Cultural institutions like the Etpison Museum and Ngarachamayong Cultural Center provide context on Palauan craftsmanship, traditional social structures, and archaeological findings.

Cultural Heritage of Palau — Map

A

Meteu 'L Klechem

A historic stone monolith and landing site in Melekeok, traditionally used as a meeting place and associated with Palauan folklore and local governance.

B

Old Japanese Lighthouse

Concrete ruins of a colonial-era lighthouse built by the Japanese administration in the early 20th century, situated on a hill in Ngerchelong.

C

WWII Japanese Communications Center

Heavily damaged two-story concrete building used by the Imperial Japanese Navy during the Battle of Peleliu in 1944.

D

Their Majesties Emperor Akihito & Empress Michiko Rest House 2015

A commemorative structure built for the Japanese imperial couple's visit to Peleliu to honor those who died during World War II.

E

Memorial 1st Marine Division

A monument on Peleliu dedicated to the soldiers of the 1st Marine Division who fought in the Pacific Theater during 1944.

F

US Marine Corps Memorial

A commemorative site honoring the members of the United States Marine Corps involved in the capture of Peleliu.

G

Ngarachamayong Cultural Center

A facility in Koror dedicated to preserving Palauan traditions through performances, community gatherings, and cultural exhibits.

H

Etpison Museum

A museum featuring Palauan artifacts, traditional bead money, historical photography, and displays on the island's natural history and biodiversity.

I

Ngerchelong stone monoliths

Also known as Badrulchau, this archaeological site contains 37 massive basalt monoliths, some with carved faces, dating back to approximately 161 AD.

J

Peliliu World War II Memorial Museum

Housed in a former Japanese warehouse, this museum displays salvaged weaponry, personal effects, and photographs from the 1944 Battle of Peleliu.

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