Northern Mariana Islands Villages and Settlements
The Northern Mariana Islands comprise a diverse array of islands in the Pacific, each with a unique history of human habitation. From bustling hubs of commerce and administration to remote outposts that have since been reclaimed by nature, the distribution of villages across these islands reflects the region's complex geographical and environmental challenges.
Key Facts
- Saipan contains the highest concentration of populated villages.
- Several islands, including Alamagan, Agrihan, Anatahan, Pagan, and Sarigan, have villages that are now abandoned or evacuated.
- Evacuations occurred in various waves, notably in 1981, 1990, and 2010.
- All islands in the territory other than those listed as having villages are currently uninhabited.
Populated Islands and Their Settlements
The settlements of the Northern Mariana Islands are spread across several key landmasses, with varying levels of current activity.
Saipan
Saipan is the most densely populated island, featuring a wide range of villages and urbanized areas. These include administrative centers, residential neighborhoods, and coastal settlements.
- Achugao, As Lito, As Matuis, As Perdido, As Teo, As Terlaje
- Capital Hill, Chalan Galaidi, Chalan Kanoa, Chalan Kiya, Chalan Piao
- Chinatown, Dandan, Fina Sisu, Garapan, Gualo Rai
- Kagman, Kalabera, Kannat Tabla, Koblerville, Laulau
- Marpi, Matansa, Navy Hill, Papago, Puerto Rico
- Sadog Tasi, San Antonio, San Jose, San Roque, San Vicente
- Susupe, Tapochao, Talafofo, Tanapag
Tinian and Rota
Tinian and Rota also maintain active residential communities, though they are smaller in scale compared to Saipan.
On Tinian, the settlements include Carolinas Heights, Marpo Heights, Marpo Valley, San Jose, Tinian Village, and Unai Dankulo.
On Rota, the villages consist of Chugai, Sinapalo, Shinapaaru, and Songsong.
Evacuated and Abandoned Settlements
Due to environmental factors and volcanic activity, several northern islands have seen their populations relocated. These sites are now classified as abandoned or evacuated.
Northern Outposts
- Alamagan: Alamagan Village (evacuated 2010)
- Agrihan: Agrihan Village (evacuated 1990)
- Anatahan: Anatahan Village (evacuated 1990)
- Sarigan: Sarigan Village (abandoned)
Pagan Island
Pagan Island experienced significant population shifts in the early 1980s. Its former settlements include Bandara Village (abandoned), as well as Marasu and Shomushon, both of which were evacuated in 1981.
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Summary of Island Habitability
| Island | Status | Notable Villages/Settlements |
|---|---|---|
| Saipan | Populated | Garapan, Capital Hill, Tanapag, and others |
| Tinian | Populated | Tinian Village, San Jose, Unai Dankulo |
| Rota | Populated | Songsong, Chugai, Sinapalo, Shinapaaru |
| Pagan | Abandoned/Evacuated | Bandara, Marasu, Shomushon |
| Alamagan | Evacuated | Alamagan Village |
| Agrihan | Evacuated | Agrihan Village |
| Anatahan | Evacuated | Anatahan Village |
| Sarigan | Abandoned | Sarigan Village |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which island in the Northern Mariana Islands has the most villages?
Saipan has the highest number of villages and settlements, including major areas like Garapan and Capital Hill.
Are there any completely uninhabited islands in the territory?
Yes, all islands in the Northern Mariana Islands other than those specifically listed with villages are uninhabited.
When were the villages on Pagan Island evacuated?
The villages of Marasu and Shomushon on Pagan Island were evacuated in 1981.
Which villages were evacuated most recently?
Alamagan Village is the most recently evacuated settlement on the list, with the evacuation occurring in 2010.
Which islands have villages that are listed as abandoned rather than evacuated?
Bandara Village on Pagan and Sarigan Village on Sarigan are specifically listed as abandoned.