• Solomon Islands!

    Solomon Islands: Looking up at palm trees. Go Now!

    Solomon Islands
    This Melanesian country is best known for its many islands and beaches... and this natural landscape (pictured) is why most people go. Don't miss out on the unique Melanesian culture and foods though! Begin Your Journey!

  • Tonga!

    Tonga: Coastline. Go Now!

    Tonga
    The heart of Polynesian culture is rooted in Tonga, but most visitors just come for the natural beauty. Explore Tonga!

  • Vanuatu!

    Vanuatu: Jetty into the ocean. Go Now!

    Vanuatu
    Picturesque serenity is a good way to describe Vanuatu, but the culture offers much more, including the inspiration for bungee jumping, which remains a rite of passage for young men. Explore Vanuatu!

  • Palau!

    Palau: "70 Islands!" Go Now!

    Palau
    Few people have even heard of this small Micronesian country, but those who have often return with stories of beauty unmatched elsewhere, such as view of the "70 Islands" (pictured). Go Now!

  • Explore the: Federated States of Micronesia!

    Federated States of Micronesia: Overlooking some islands. Go Now!

    Federated States of Micronesia
    This diverse country stretches for thousands of miles and has the diversity to prove it, including the people from Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Yap among others. Begin Your Journey!

  • Samoa!

    Samoa: A traditional home. Go Now!

    Samoa
    Among the most famous of the South Pacific's many countries, Samoa sits in the heart of Polynesia and has a culture to match. Begin Your Journey!

Architecture of Tuvalu

Most of the historic and traditional architecture in Tuvalu is in the form of housing. The houses in Tuvalu were, and still are, primarily made of wood and these rectangular structures were simple in design and appearance. They often stand a bit above the ground and have thatched roofs. Villages also had a meeting house, which was large enough to fit much of the community.

With the arrival of the Europeans the greatest initial change to the architecture came in building materials and techniques. Some foreign materials were added, such as nails, but it was the new woods and more durable joining materials that truly changed the architecture as structures survived much longer due to better construction. In more recent years the building materials have continued to change as they now primarily consist of imported materials, although these can be very expensive so not accessible to much of the population.

The Europeans also brought in new styles and types of buildings. As the people converted to Christianity churches were built, often times in stone or brick and at times structures were built in the British Victorian Style. Other structures, such as public buildings and schools were also built. Today much of Funafuti is built with western materials and is in western or international architectural styles. Even houses are shifting in this direction as the people gain more money to afford such structures.

This page was last updated: February, 2013