Langi Royal Tombs, Lapaha
Ngaahi Langi, Lapaha
The former capital of the Tuʻi Tonga Empire, with stepped stone royal tombs dating from about the 13th to 16th centuries, a testament to the peak of a Polynesian maritime empire.
Lapaha (Mu'a) was the capital of the Tuʻi Tonga dynasty from the 13th to the 19th century. Dozens of stepped stone royal tombs called langi are scattered here, built from huge slabs of coral stone brought from places such as Wallis. The best-preserved is Paepae-o-Tele'a, with exquisitely fitted stonework. At the empire's height, its influence reached as far as Samoa and Fiji. The site lies within the village. Entry is free, and simple interpretive signs are provided. It is about 20 kilometers from the capital and can be combined with Captain Cook's Landing Place.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Captain Cook's Landing Place
- 'Anahulu Cave
- Oholei Beach & Hina Cave
- Pangaimotu Island
- Ha'amonga 'a Maui Trilithon
- Hufangalupe Arch
- Talamahu Market
- Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua