Nan Madol

The Nan Madol served the purpose of centralizing control as a megalithic complex. Chieftans were required to live inside the structure as a way of maintaining power over the local clans. The Basalt boulders were influenced by Megalithic architecture, as were the prismatic columns. The geometric design provided even weight support. The complex was a result of the Saudeleur Dynasty.

Maori Meeting House

The Maori Meeting House originated as a dwelling space for the tribal chief but the purpose shifted into a meeting place after coming in contact with Western influences. The decorative totum pole style columns served as ancestoral tribute, and the lattice panels on the outside created by women, since it was wrong for women to be inside of the structure at the time. The symbolism of the intricit aesthetic includes the chevrons representing the teeth of the sea, steps representing the stairs to heaven, and diamonds representing flounder. You know, like, the Little Mermaid.

The first structure was utilitarian while the second served more ceremonial purposes.