A reminder of our Chamorro ancestors
Situated a few hundred yards from Tinian Harbor is the House of Taga, one of Micronesia’s most persistent mysteries. It is named after Taga, a legendary Chamorro noble. The House of Taga is a series of latte stones, only one of which remains standing. Latte stones were conceived of and produced by the ancient inhabitants of the Mariana Islands, and the House of Taga possesses the largest standing latte stone in Micronesia. Made of tenacious limestone there is, perhaps surprisingly, very little known about the exact origins of these ancient rock monoliths. Like Stonehenge in England, the stones located at the House of Taga inspire artists and astound historians, while the basic question remains: why were they built? A precise answer is unknown, but theories do exist. Many believe these impressive stones were the foundation of an ancient structure, perhaps the home of a great leader such as Taga, or a building that acted as a community gathering spot. Others speculate that they were erected to honor someone or something. Their proximity to the ocean is worth noting, and may provide evidence that supports either theory.