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Tomb of Pomare V
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monument
The Tomb of Pomare V stands as a poignant reminder of Tahiti's monarchical past. King Pomare V was the son of Queen Pomare IV and ascended to the throne amid French colonial pressure. His reign was marked by the loss of sovereignty; he ceded Tahiti to France in 1880 in exchange for pensions and titles. The tomb's design reflects a blend of Christian and Tahitian influences. It is maintained by descendants of the royal family. The site is often visited by those interested in Polynesian history. The nearby ruins of the royal palace (destroyed by fire) add context. In 1995, the tomb was vandalized but later repaired. The government has considered buying the land to make it a public monument. The tomb is also a pilgrimage site for those honoring the Pomare dynasty.
- Location: French Polynesia
- Top sights: Musée James Norman Hall · Maison de James Norman Hall · Eglise Adventiste Du Septième Jour
- Nearby: Papeete (5 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
Visiting
The Tomb of Pomare V is an outdoor monument that can be visited at any time. It is located in a quiet residential area of Arue and is publicly accessible.
Typical hours
As an open-air monument, it has no opening hours and is always accessible. Visitors should still choose the time of day for best lighting conditions.
Photography
Photography is allowed, of course; the coral stone structure makes a worthwhile subject. Be careful to respect the dignity of the site and not step onto the grave.
Time needed
A visit typically takes 10 to 20 minutes, depending on interest in the inscription and surroundings. Since the site is small, a brief stop suffices.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby Musée de Tahiti et des Îles or a walk along Arue's coastline. Queen Pomare IV's tomb is also close by.
Getting there
The tomb is located on the main road in Arue, about 10 minutes by car from Papeete. There are no dedicated parking spots, but street parking is possible.
Insider tip
Visit the tomb in the morning when the light beautifully illuminates the coral stones. Combine it with a picnic in the neighboring Arue park.
Geography
Facts
- Last king of Tahiti, ceded sovereignty in 1880.
- Tomb reflects Christian and Tahitian styles.
- Vandalized in 1995, repaired shortly after.
- Maintained by royal descendants.
- Ruins of palace destroyed by fire nearby.
- Potential government purchase for public access.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Tomb of Pomare V (10)
Tombeau du roi Pōmare
Tomb of King Pōmare V in Tahiti.
Temple te Fetia
Place of worship in Tahiti.
Église du Sacré-Coeur
Church dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Tahiti.
Chapelle d'Arue - église mormonne
Chapel of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Arue.
Plage Radisson
Beach near the Radisson Hotel in Tahiti.
Belvédère du Tahara'a
Viewpoint overlooking Tahiti's north coast.
Monument religieux
Religious monument in Tahiti.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Tomb of Pomare V.?
The final resting place of the last king of Tahiti.
Where is it located?
In Arue, near Papeete.
Can one visit it?
Yes, the tomb is accessible from the outside.
Can one enter the area?
Yes, it is an open park area.
How long does a visit take?
About 20 minutes is enough.
Tomb of Pomare V: where is it located?
Tomb of Pomare V is located in French Polynesia.
Tomb of Pomare V: what is there to see?
Highlights include Musée James Norman Hall, Maison de James Norman Hall, Eglise Adventiste Du Septième Jour.
Tomb of Pomare V: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Tomb of Pomare V: why is it worth visiting?
The Tomb of Pomare V stands as a poignant reminder of Tahiti's monarchical past.
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