David's Drill

David's Drill is a historic scientific site on Funafuti Atoll, established by the Royal Society of London in the late 19th century. Directed by Professor Edgeworth David, several drilling attempts were conducted between 1896 and 1898 to prove Charles Darwin's theory on the formation of coral atolls. Darwin hypothesized that atolls grew upon subsiding volcanic islands, which would be confirmed by finding deep layers of coral debris. The expedition eventually reached a depth of 1,114 feet (340 meters), retrieving only coral material, which provided significant evidence for Darwin's hypothesis. Today, the location is marked by a memorial plaque and stands as a testament to early Pacific scientific exploration. The core samples from Funafuti are still preserved in museums and referenced in contemporary geological studies. This site represents a major milestone in the history of science and the collaboration between biology and geomorphology.

Nearby cities

Lofeagai

Lofeagai is a village in the north of Fongafale.

Alapi

Alapi is a central village on Fongafale islet of Funafuti atoll.

🗺️

Fakaifou

Fakaifou is a populous village on Fongafale, the main atoll of Tuvalu.

Vaiaku

Vaiaku is the administrative center of Funafuti and the seat of the government of Tuvalu.

Senala

Senala is a neighborhood of Funafuti on Fongafale islet.

Teone

Teone is located in the northern part of the built-up area of Fongafale on Funafuti atoll.

Tanrake

Tanrake is the administrative center of Nui atoll.

Tokelau

Tokelau is one of the two main villages on Nanumanga island.

Kulia

Kulia is the most populous settlement on Niutao island.

Niulakita

Niulakita is the southernmost island of Tuvalu and home to a single small village.

Amatuku

Amatuku is a small island settlement within the Funafuti atoll.

History & landmarks

Tuvalu Government Building

The Tuvalu Government Building in Funafuti is the administrative hub of the nation.

Vaiaku Lagi Hotel

Vaiaku Lagi Hotel is the only government-owned hotel in Tuvalu, situated on the lagoon's edge.

Fongafale Reef Edge

The reef edge off Fongafale is the most critical natural barrier against the ocean.

🗺️

Funafuti Post Office

The Funafuti Post Office is the central communication hub for the nation's atolls.

Women's Handicraft Centre

The Women's Handicraft Centre in Funafuti offers traditional weavings and art pieces.

Tuvalu Meteorological Service

The Tuvalu Meteorological Service building in Funafuti monitors climate and weather patterns.

Former WWII Hospital Site

Site of the temporary US military hospital on Fongafale during the 1940s.

Princess Margaret Hospital

Princess Margaret Hospital is the sole hospital in Tuvalu, providing essential medical care.

Nature

Amatuku Marine Area

The waters around Amatuku are known for their healthy coral gardens and a high concentration of invertebrates.

Te Namo Lagoon

Te Namo is the largest body of water within the Funafuti Atoll.

More places

Funafuti Deep Sea Wharf

The Funafuti Deep Sea Wharf is the primary gateway for international trade in Tuvalu.

Tuvalu National Archives

This archive preserves important documents regarding Tuvalu's independence in 1978.

Tuvalu Philatelic Bureau

The Tuvalu Philatelic Bureau in Funafuti is world-renowned for issuing rare postage stamps.

Funafuti Fish Market

The fish market is the hub of the local fishing industry, operated by NAFICOT.

National Bank of Tuvalu

The National Bank of Tuvalu is the sole commercial banking institution in the country.

Vaiaku Business District

Vaiaku is the economic heart of Tuvalu, where the main government buildings, banks, and commercial outlets are concentrated.

Tuvalu Telecommunications Corporation

The TTC is the sole provider of fixed-line, mobile, and internet services in Tuvalu.

Fetu Ao Lima Church

Fetu Ao Lima Church is the largest place of worship in Funafuti and a central community hub.