Ta'ata Marae

The Marae Ta'ata is one of the largest maraes still visible on the island of Tahiti and is located in the commune of Paea at pk 19, on the mountain side. This royal marae, with its revolutionary architecture, brings together 3 maraes built in different ways, representing 3 chiefs: Pouira o Tevahitua i Patea, Tetooha o Taura atua i Patea, and Punuaaitua. The royal status of these authorities has been demonstrated by the bossed stones and human bones found. It was a sacred ceremonial site of great importance, as human sacrifices were performed there. Oral knowledge also mentions that it was here that the Ari'i Maro'Ura was enthroned during the reign of Pomare I. The first marae was built in such a way that the stones are placed in such a way as to blend together, thus emphasizing a certain style and authenticity. The second has its stones cut, ordered and arranged in courses, giving an impression of grandeur, characteristic of the reign of the god Oro. And finally, the last is made up of irregular stonework. This complex emphasizes the power of one of the island's greatest clan coalitions, the "Te 'Oropa'a", who ruled the entire west coast from the 18th century onwards. Between 1925 and 2010, the building underwent several renovations due to its advanced state of deterioration.