Marae Vaiotaha

Marae Vaiotaha is one of the most significant historical and religious sites on Bora Bora, functioning as the island's central seat of political power prior to European contact. This sacred complex was dedicated to Oro, the formidable god of war and fertility, and shared deep ritualistic ties with the renowned Taputapuatea marae on Raiatea. The site's prestige was paramount, as it hosted the investiture ceremonies for the high chiefs (Ari'i) of Bora Bora, where they were formally presented with the sacred red-feathered belt (maro 'ura), the ultimate symbol of royal authority. Tragically, during the 19th-century conversion to Christianity, the marae was largely dismantled, and its basalt stones were repurposed for road construction and other buildings. While only minimal physical remains are visible today, the site's spiritual importance endures among the local population. It remains a symbol of the island's ancient genealogy and spiritual origins, offering a profound glimpse into the pre-colonial religious landscape of the Society Islands.

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.

Vaitape Harbor

Vaitape is the commercial heart of Bora Bora.

St. Joseph Church Faanui

A charming Catholic church in Faanui village on Bora Bora.

Marae Tara

A small, quiet marae on Bora Bora used for ancestral worship.

Marae Marotetini

Located on the northern coast of Bora Bora, this marae was a spiritual site for chiefs.

Marae Taianapa

This marae on Bora Bora is notable for its secluded location.