St. Paul Church Tautira

St. Paul Church in Tautira is a serene Catholic sanctuary positioned at the easternmost point of Tahiti-Iti, the smaller of Tahiti's two peninsulas. Located in a village known for its deep connection to traditional Polynesian customs, the church stands as a vital spiritual heart for the local residents. The structure features a modest design that harmonizes with the coastal landscape, while its interior has a unique altar crafted with local materials and intricate Tahitian woodcarvings. Tautira is famous for being one of the most culturally preserved areas on the island, and this heritage is vividly displayed during Sunday services. Visitors who attend mass are often moved by the powerful, polyphonic choral singing in the Tahitian language, a tradition that has remained strong for generations. Surrounded by the dramatic green peaks of Tahiti-Iti and the quiet waters of the lagoon, St. Paul Church provides a peaceful retreat for those seeking to experience the authentic faith and communal warmth of remote French Polynesia.

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.

Mahina

Mahina is a coastal commune in northern Tahiti, famous for the historical Point Venus and black sand beaches.

Paea

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

Papara

Papara is an extensive commune on the southern coast of Tahiti, known for its agriculture and wide beaches.

Arue

Arue is a commune in northeastern Tahiti that offers a mix of industrial areas and exclusive residential neighborhoods.

Toahotu

Toahotu is a commune at the entrance of the Tahiti Iti peninsula, known for its white sand beaches and coconut groves.

Taravao

Taravao is a strategically important town located on the isthmus connecting the two peninsulas of Tahiti.

Afaahiti

Afaahiti is a commune on the Tahiti Iti peninsula, bordering the important commercial center of Taravao.

Mataiea

Mataiea is a picturesque coastal commune on the southern shore of Tahiti, renowned for its lush botanical gardens and serene beaches.

Mataiea

Mataiea is a village in southern Tahiti known for its lush vegetation and historical links to Paul Gauguin.

Paopao

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

Papeari

Papeari is a coastal village on Tahiti famous for its natural beauty and the Paul Gauguin Museum.

History & landmarks

Te Pari Cliffs Reserve

The Te Pari cliffs on the southeast coast of Tahiti Iti are only accessible by boat.

Tahiti Iti Coffee

High-quality Arabica coffee is grown on the peninsula.

Taravao Plateau

This high plateau is the center of livestock farming.

Nature

More places

Papeete Town Hall

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

Vaiare

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

🗺️

Marae of Tahiti Iti

This sacred site on the smaller peninsula of Tahiti Iti is known for its secluded beauty.

🗺️

Marae Ati-Tahito

This secluded marae is located on Tahiti Iti and is known for its spiritual atmosphere.

Paul Gauguin Museum

A museum dedicated to the famous French painter Paul Gauguin in Papeari.