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Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Papeete: A Colonial Gem

Discover Papeete's oldest Catholic church, a vibrant blend of colonial and Polynesian design, and a testament to Tahiti's rich history.

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The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Papeete, a late 19th-century church, stands as the cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Papeete. Located near the waterfront on Rue du Général de Gaulle, it is the oldest Catholic church in Tahiti and a lasting example of early colonial architecture. Its vibrant colors and blend of European and Polynesian design make it a must-see landmark.

A brief summary to Papeete Catholic Cathedral

  • FC5M+W54, Av. du Général de Gaulle, Papeete, 'Orovini, PF
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit during a service to experience the passionate hymns and the local community's devotion.
  • Take a moment to appreciate the intricate woodwork and artistic details that reflect the craftsmanship of local artisans.
  • Explore the surrounding area, conveniently located near other attractions in Papeete, such as the Papeete Market and the Black Pearl Museum.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Papeete Ferry Terminal, walk west along Boulevard Pomare towards the city center. Turn left onto Rue du Général de Gaulle; the cathedral will be on your right, approximately a 10-minute walk. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Buses in Papeete connect to various districts. Check local bus routes for the most convenient option to Rue du Général de Gaulle. From a bus stop on or near the street, the cathedral will be a short walk away. Bus fares within Papeete cost 130 XPF (approximately $1.10 USD) until 6 pm and 200 XPF (approximately $1.68 USD) thereafter.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Papeete. A short taxi ride within the city center to the cathedral should cost around 1,500 XPF (approximately $12.57 USD) as a starting price. Fares increase by at least 20% from 8 pm to 6 am. Ensure the driver agrees to the fare before starting the journey.

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Discover more about Papeete Catholic Cathedral

The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Papeete, also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, is a significant historical and religious monument in French Polynesia. Construction occurred in stages from 1856 to 1875, overseen by the bishop and carried out by laborers from Mangareva. The cathedral was inaugurated on December 23, 1875, by Monseigneur Tepano Jaussen. The cathedral's architecture blends colonial and Gothic styles. Its yellow facade features two pilasters and three pointed arch-stained glass windows. The central window, the largest, sits above the arched entrance. A hexagonal bell tower rises above, topped with a pointed red spire. Inside, European and Polynesian design elements merge, exemplified by a woodcarving of the Madonna and Child, with the Child holding breadfruit. The Stations of the Cross incorporate Tahitian and Roman cultural elements in the figures' dress, influenced by Paul Gauguin's artistic style. Over the years, the cathedral has withstood cyclones, a tidal wave, a bombardment, and riots. The cathedral has three bells named Marie Charlotte, Emilie Octavie, and Anne Martin. The cathedral is at PK 0, the point from which all distances on the island are measured. Today, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Papeete remains an active church and a symbol of Tahiti's rich history.

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