A group of ancient islets in the Federated States of Micronesia is the newest addition to the Pacific's list of UNESCO world heritage sites.
The islets contain architectural remains dating from the 13th century.
Nan Madol is a series of 99 artificial islets off the south-east coast of Pohnpei.
They contain the remains of stone palaces, temples and tombs built between the 13th and 16th centuries.
Its among four new sites inscribed by the UN agency UNESCO last week.
UNESCO said the ruins represent the ceremonial centre of the Saudeleur dynasty which was a vibrant period in Pacific Island culture.
The Pacific island region has eight other World Heritage sites including the historic port of Levuka in Fiji and the Marshall Islands Bikini Atoll nuclear test site.
UNESCO said the structures' huge scale, concentration and technical sophistication show the complex social and religious practices of the island societies of the period.
Nan Madol: Federated States of Micronesia, is the newest addition to the Pacific's list of UNESCO world heritage sites. Photo: Wikipedia
