Marae Hauviri (Opoa)

Located in Opoa on the southeastern coast of Raiatea, Marae Hauviri is an integral part of the Taputapuātea UNESCO World Heritage site. This sacred precinct once served as the preeminent ceremonial center for all of Polynesia and is particularly famed for its role in the coronation of high chiefs from the Tamatoa lineage. At the heart of the marae stands an imposing white basalt monolith, approximately three meters high, known as Te-Papa-tea-o-Ruätea, which symbolizes spiritual and political authority. The structure itself features precisely constructed walls made of white coral slabs that enclose an elevated stone platform. The significance of this site was noted as early as the 18th century by explorers such as Captain James Cook. Later, it became a strategic power center for the Pomare dynasty as they unified the Society Islands. Today, Marae Hauviri stands not just as an archaeological ruin, but as a profound monument to Polynesian cosmology and the navigational prowess of the ancestors who voyaged across the Pacific.

Nearby cities

Faa'a

Faa'a is the most populous commune in French Polynesia, located directly west of the capital Papeete.

Papeete

Papeete is the capital of French Polynesia and the primary economic hub located on the island of Tahiti.

Puna'auia

Puna'auia is a major residential commune on the west coast of Tahiti, known for its university and beaches.

Pirae

Pirae is an urban commune east of Papeete that hosts major medical and administrative facilities.

Paea

Paea is a commune on the west coast of Tahiti, rich in archaeological sites and coral reefs.

Vaitape

Vaitape is the largest town on Bora Bora and serves as the island's main commercial and administrative hub.

Paopao

Paopao is a village located at the base of the majestic Cook's Bay on the island of Moorea.

Haapiti

Haapiti is a village on the southwest coast of Moorea, known for its cultural traditions and excellent surf spots.

Uturoa

Uturoa is the administrative center of Raiatea island and the second most important town in French Polynesia after Papeete.

Afareaitu

Afareaitu is the administrative center of Moorea island, located on the island's picturesque eastern coast.

Teavaro

Teavaro is a village in eastern Moorea, famous for its long white sand Temae beach and views of Tahiti.

Faanui

Faanui is a picturesque village on Bora Bora, located on a deep bay and possessing a rich history.

Papetoai

Papetoai is a historic village on Moorea, located in Opunohu Bay and known for its octagonal church.

Tevaitoa

Tevaitoa is the main village of the Tumaraa commune in southwest Raiatea, known for its tranquility.

Faie

Faie is a small village on Huahine Nui, famous for its sacred blue-eyed eels.

History & landmarks

Uturoa Town Hall

The administrative building of Uturoa on Raiatea, the second-largest settlement in French Polynesia.

Uturoa Public Library

An important educational center on Raiatea.

Nature

Faaroa River

The Faaroa River on Raiatea is the only navigable river in French Polynesia.

Faaroa River Nature Reserve

The Faaroa is the only navigable river in French Polynesia.

Mount Tapioi

Mount Tapioi offers the most famous viewpoint on the island of Raiatea.

More places

Papeete Town Hall

Papeete Town Hall is a magnificent colonial-style building that resembles the former palace of Queen Pomare.

Vaitoare

Vaitoare is the main port in southern Taha'a and the gateway to the island of Raiatea.

Vaiare

Vaiare is the primary port of Moorea and the main gateway for travelers arriving by ferry from Tahiti.

Marae Opoa

Located in the village of Opoa on Raiatea, this marae is closely linked to god Oro.

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Marae Taputapuatea

This UNESCO World Heritage site on Raiatea was the religious center of Eastern Polynesia.

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Marae Hauviri

Located immediately adjacent to the great Taputapuatea, this marae was of great importance for the coronation of Raiatea's kings.

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Mount Temehani

Mount Temehani on Raiatea is a sacred high plateau and the only place in the world where the rare Tiare Apetahi flower grows in the wild.

Uturoa Port

Uturoa is the second most important commercial center after Papeete.