Marae Marotetini

Marae Marotetini is one of the most significant archaeological and spiritual sites on the island of Bora Bora. Situated prominently on the Farepiti point at the edge of the lagoon, this sacred stone temple was once the principal religious center for the island's ruling families. In the early 19th century, the site was largely destroyed following the arrival of Christian missionaries and the abandonment of traditional polytheistic practices. However, in 1968, the renowned archaeologist Yoshiko Sinoto led a comprehensive restoration project to return the marae to its former glory. The site is notable for housing two large stone tombs belonging to members of the Pomare royal family. Its location right by the turquoise water served both practical and symbolic purposes, connecting the earthly power of the chiefs with the spiritual forces of the sea and the ancestors.

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.

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.

Fare

Fare is the capital of Huahine island, offering a relaxed atmosphere with small shops and a lively harbor.

History & landmarks

Uturoa Town Hall

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

Nature

Mount Pahia

Mount Pahia is the second highest peak on Bora Bora, known for its distinctive twin summits.

Mount Otemanu

Mount Otemanu is the iconic landmark of Bora Bora, rising 727 meters high.

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 Arituitui

A small but significant marae on Bora Bora used for worshiping local deities.

WWII Cannons of Bora Bora

Eight US coastal cannons were installed on Bora Bora during WWII.

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Pofatuuraa Fort

This former defensive structure on Bora Bora offers a wide view over the ocean.

WWII Cannons Bora Bora

American coastal artillery cannons from WWII, strategically placed on the hills overlooking the Bora Bora lagoon.

Marae Vaiotaha

This historic marae on Bora Bora was once the island's most significant.