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Papeete Cathedral

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Located in the heart of Papeete, the Notre Dame Cathedral stands as a significant religious and historical landmark on the island of Tahiti. Its construction spanned several decades, beginning in 1844 and culminating in its official consecration in 1875. The architectural style is a unique blend of European Neo-Gothic design and local Polynesian aesthetics, most notably seen in its animated red roof that pierces the tropical skyline. Inside, the cathedral has a peaceful sanctuary characterized by beautiful stained-glass windows depicting biblical narratives within an oceanic setting. As the seat of the Archdiocese of Papeete, the church serves as the spiritual hub for the city's Catholic community and remains a focal point for local celebrations. Its proximity to the bustling municipal market and the waterfront makes it an accessible starting point for exploring the capital's colonial heritage and enduring religious traditions.

Location: French Polynesia
Top sights: Galerie Winkler · Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Papeete · Temple de Béthel
Nearby: Pirae (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	27	27	27	27	26	25	25	25	26	26	27
Rain mm	190	175	134	116	90	69	52	47	40	84	113	221

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Papeete Cathedral, the oldest church in Tahiti, is generally open to visitors. Its historic interior can be explored outside of service times, and the courtyard with its colonial architecture is always accessible.

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Typical hours

The cathedral typically opens for mass times with a midday closure. Visiting late morning or early afternoon gives you the best chance to see the interior without interrupting services.

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Photography

Photography inside is usually allowed without flash; the colorful stained glass and wood carvings are particularly rewarding. The white facade and portico also offer great photo opportunities.

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Time needed

Allow about 20-30 minutes to visit the cathedral. Its central location makes it easy to combine with a walk through Papeete's historic core and nearby attractions.

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Combine with

Pair the cathedral with a visit to the Papeete Market and the town hall. The waterfront and port are also within a few minutes' walk, creating a compact sightseeing loop.

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Getting there

The cathedral is in the heart of Papeete, within walking distance from the ferry terminal and most hotels. Buses and taxis stop nearby; parking in the city center is limited.

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Insider tip

Visit the cathedral in the morning when light streams through the stained glass windows. Look for the memorial plaques on the exterior walls that recount Tahiti's history.

Geography

Coordinates

-17.53890, -149.56940

Facts

Completed in 1875
Neo-Romanesque architectural style
Funded by French colonial administration
Bell tower height: 30 m
Stained glass windows from the 19th century
Restored in the 1990s

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Vaima Center<1 km · NWExplore →

Kanti Chinese Temple2 km · NExplore →

Faa'a4 km · SExplore →

Tomb of King Pomare V4 km · NWExplore →

Fataua Valley Nature Area4 km · NEExplore →

Pirae4 km · NExplore →

Arue Commercial Zone6 km · NExplore →

Punaauia Business Center7 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

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Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Papeete Cathedral (10)

Galerie Winkler

Galerie Winkler exhibits contemporary art from French Polynesia, rotating shows by local artists.

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Papeete

Catholic cathedral in Papeete, seat of the diocese, built in the 19th century.

🌐 cathedraledepapeete.com

Temple de Béthel

Protestant temple in Papeete, meeting place for the evangelical community.

Place de l'Autonomie

Central square in Papeete, venue for events and gatherings.

Plage Hokule'a

Beach in Papeete, suitable for swimming and relaxing.

Musée de la perle Robert Wan🏛 museum

Museum in Papeete showcasing the history of pearl farming in French Polynesia.

Église évangélique de Pentecôte

Pentecostal church in Papeete, services and community meetings.

Les Jardins de Pā'ōfa'i

Park in Papeete with green spaces and walking paths.

Grand Théâtre de la Maison de la culture

Large theater in Papeete's cultural center, stage for plays and concerts.

Petit Théatre

Small theater in Papeete, intimate performances and local productions.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When is the cathedral open?

Usually open during the day for visitors and services.

Does admission cost anything?

No, admission is free for tourists.

Do I need to dress specifically?

Yes, shoulders and knees should be covered.

Am I allowed to take photos inside?

Discreetly without flash is usually allowed.

How long does a visit last?

Plan for about 20 to 30 minutes.

Papeete Cathedral: where is it located?

Papeete Cathedral is located in French Polynesia.

Papeete Cathedral: what is there to see?

Highlights include Galerie Winkler, Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Papeete, Temple de Béthel.

Papeete Cathedral: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Papeete Cathedral: why is it worth visiting?

Located in the heart of Papeete, the Notre Dame Cathedral stands as a significant religious and historical landmark on the island of Tahiti.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →