Marae Ta'ata: Echoes of Ancient Polynesia

Marae Ta'ata is a significant historical landmark in Paea, Tahiti, offering visitors a unique window into ancient Polynesian culture. As one of the largest marae still visible on the island, it stands as a testament to the traditions and beliefs of the ancestors. The site is comprised of three adjoined stone courtyards, each featuring its own ahu (altar), suggesting it may have been used for religious fishing rituals. The architecture of Marae Ta'ata is unique, uniting three marae that were each constructed differently for three distinct chiefs: Pouira o Tevahitua i Patea, Tetooha o Taura atua i Patea, and Punuaaitua. The cut stone and human bones discovered here are proof of the royal status of these chiefs. It was the scene of important sacred ceremonies, including human sacrifices, and Ari'i Maro'Ura was enthroned here under the reign of Pomare 1st. Kenneth Emory, an archaeologist, first inventoried Marae Ta'ata in 1925. Although it was in poor condition, he discerned the remains of a three-tiered pyramid-shaped ahu. Excavation and restoration work was carried out in 1973 under the direction of Pr. José Garanger, who discovered ahu from two previous periods under the pyramid-shaped ahu. From 2004 to 2010, the Culture Department carried out several restoration projects. Today, Marae Ta'ata has regained some of its former glory and is open to the public, who can soak up the strength of its ancestors.