Badrulchau

Badrulchau

The Badrulchau Stone Monoliths are perhaps the largest and oldest archaeological site in Palau, located on the hillsides at the northernmost point of the island of Babeldaob. Ngarchelong is home to these ancient stone monoliths, which have mysterious origins. These stone monoliths were considered sacred places of prayer by the traditional Palaun religion. There are other stone monoliths in and around the islands, but not as many as at Ngarchelong. The archaeological site consists of 52 basalt megaliths, arranged in two rows, some with crude faces carved into them. Archaeologists estimate the date of construction to be around 161. The purpose of these stone monuments is questionable, but they are thought to have been the pillars of a bai, a kind of traditional Palauan meeting house. Legend has it that this bai was built by the gods and could house thousands of people at a time. If so, the monoliths could be the largest remains of bai ever built. The site was added to the Palau Register of Historic Places on 13 September 1989 in recognition of its significance. By preserving, studying and interpreting the site, it can serve to educate future generations about the historical and cultural heritage of the Palauan people.