Kolonia

Kolonia's history is deeply marked by Pohnpei's multiple foreign occupiers, and evidence of their former presence is found throughout the town and island.

In 1899, as a consequence of the Spanish–American War, Germany purchased Pohnpei from Spain along with the rest of the Caroline Islands and established district offices in Kolonia.

Roads and wharves were built and buildings erected (a church bell tower and cemetery[2] remain), but the town stayed relatively small as few German or other foreign settlers arrived to live on the island.

Unlike previous occupiers, the Japanese brought thousands of settlers to Micronesia, who outnumbered the indigenous population on some islands.

During World War II, much of Kolonia was destroyed as some 118 tons of American bombs, 600 incendiaries and naval artillery targeted the town and island installations.

Kolonia Town boasts Pohnpei State government offices, public and private schools, grocery stores, restaurants, bars, hotels and houses of worship of various religious denominations.

The United States, Australia, China and Japan maintain embassies in Kolonia, although the Federation's capital is now at Palikir.