Alotau is the capital of Milne Bay Province, on the southeastern tip of Papua New Guinea.
Hundreds of skulls are said to belong to locals who have been consumed! However, Tawali Skull Cave, situated near Bilubilu in Alotau, Papua New Guinea, offers a chilling yet captivating glimpse into ancient customs. This karst cave is not for the faint-hearted, with its dark interior housing a vast collection of human skulls.
While the idea of being surrounded by such remains might not appeal to everyone, it is undeniably a unique experience. The cave’s grim name originates from a local practice in which the skulls were respected. After a distinctive burial, where bodies were placed upright with clay pots over their heads, the skulls were eventually separated and brought to the cave as a final act of reverence.
This act, although unsettling to modern sensibilities, reflects a profound connection with ancestry. Gaining access to these sacred sites is not straightforward; the entrance itself is uneven and challenging, making a knowledgeable local guide indispensable. The presence of this practice within the region highlights its prevalence and cultural significance. Numerous “skull caves” are found throughout Papua New Guinea.