Parliament Building, Kiribati

Kiribati’s Parliament Building, also known as the ‘Maneaba Ni Maungatabu’, is the unicameral parliament of Kiribati and is situated in the heart of Kiribati’s community.  It is not only the biggest building of any of the villages, but it is the centre of village life and the basis of the island and national governance. It was constructed to look like a local canoe from the front and from above.  Its architecture also mimics the style of traditional Kiribati huts.  The Parliament Building was designed by the Japanese construction company.  During World War II, the island nation was occupied by Japan and a site for US-Japanese warfare.  Furthermore, the whole community was involved in its construction, which emphasises how important this building is for the people of Kiribati.  A bar can be found behind it which many locals and tourists visit in order to enjoy the view over the lagoon.