Melekeok

Melekeok, Palau

Melekeok, state in Palau, western Pacific Ocean. It is located on the east coast of the country’s largest island, Babelthuap. Ngerulmud, the site of the country’s capital, is in Melekeok state; in 2006 the Palau government transferred the capital there from Koror city, on the island of Koror.

The primary focus of activity in the area is the large Neoclassical capitol complex, built on land donated by leading residents of Melekeok state and completed in 2006. Its domed central building, where the Olbiil Era Kelulau (National Congress) meets, resembles the United States Capitol. Pop. (2015) 277; (2020) 318.

The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica This article was most recently revised and updated by Amy McKenna.