Palau’s technological endeavour to protect ancient earthworks
It is estimated that nearly 20% of Babeldaob, the largest island in the archipelago, has been modified to reflect this monumental work.
Palau is undertaking a technologically advanced initiative to safeguard the ancient earthworks that represent the earliest monumental expressions in the Pacific. Tourism official Lelly Obakerbau emphasises the importance of maintaining these sites, which are threatened by encroaching jungle, stating, “If we do not keep this clean, the layers of the terraces will disappear.” She seeks to instil pride in Palau’s heritage, reminding citizens of their ancestral legacy.
Crafted over millennia, the earthworks of Palau began approximately 2,400 years ago and continued for around 1,300 years, reflecting a complex society skilled in engineering and hydrology. Archaeologists assert that these monumental structures are older than other notable Pacific sites, such as the moai of Rapa Nui and the structures of Nan Madol. Today, it is estimated that nearly 20% of Babeldaob, the largest island in the archipelago, has been modified to reflect this monumental work.
While these terraces are currently obscured by dense vegetation, innovations in archaeology have allowed researchers to employ drones equipped with light detection and ranging (lidar) technology. This technology enables the creation of accurate three-dimensional models of the earthworks, ultimately aiding in their visibility, preservation, and promotion for educational purposes. With support from the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, researchers have begun surveying these ancient sites to enhance understanding and appreciation.
The earthworks served multiple functions, including burial grounds, gardens, and ceremonial sites, indicating significant societal organisation. They manifest individual and communal power through their grand scale, challenging previous perceptions of prehistoric communities in island environments. Discussions by archaeologist Annette Kühlem highlight their transformative impact on understanding human adaptability and societal development in isolated settings.
Although archaeological investigation has been ongoing since the 1960s, Palau’s structures have not received the recognition they deserve compared to other regions in Oceania. Liston observes that Micronesian sites, such as those in Palau, often remain overlooked, with more focus placed on Polynesia and Melanesia. Moreover, Palau’s oral histories do not prominently feature these earthworks, complicating preservation efforts and awareness among the local populace.
Despite testimonies from elders that connect the terraces to mythical stories, there is widespread scepticism regarding the ancestors’ ability to construct such monumental works. Liston and Miko have published findings indicating that while oral traditions do exist, they lack a comprehensive narrative explaining the origins and construction of the earthworks. This has led to speculation regarding their construction by early settlers without substantial supporting evidence.
The population of Palau is believed to be directly descended from its earliest inhabitants in Southeast Asia, based on linguistic parallels. By the arrival of Western explorers in the 1700s, the original significance of these terraces had faded, as local populations moved to coastal stone dwellings. Liston advocates for increased recognition of this heritage amongst contemporary Palauans to foster pride and commitment to preservation.
Currently, the efforts for the conservation and promotion of these earthworks encounter numerous challenges, including insufficient funding, limited technical capacity, and difficulties due to customary land ownership laws. The growing vegetation resulting from environmental restrictions has also hindered visibility. Obakerbau, with limited resources, is determined to raise awareness of the cultural heritage in her area, stating, “I wish to see our historical and cultural heritage more active in Aimeliik.” Her initiatives include encouraging local youth to pursue studies in tourism and archaeology, reinforcing the necessity of understanding and valuing their rich history.
