An Open-Air Museum
Although "crowded" seldom comes to mind
in describing the islands of Tahiti, the word perfectly
describes the density of Huahine's historical sites.
In fact, the famous archaeological site near the village
of Maeva has the largest concentration of pre-European
marae in Polynesia.
Now, almost fully restored, 200 archeological stone
structures have survived centuries of natural destruction.
These structures lie within yards of one another along
the shore of Lake Fauna Nui and on the sacred and
scenic Matairea Hill and include marae of island chieftains,
dwellings, horticultural developments, and religious
and ceremonial monuments.
Here, overlooking the ancient stone fish traps and
the ocean beyond, visitors follow a footpath among
royal marae and immense fortification walls as well
as stone foundations for homes of island chiefs and
priests.
Other important historic finds have shown that Huahine
has the oldest recorded date of human occupation among
the Society Islands. Discoveries at the recently uncovered
sites date from A.D. 850 to 1200 and include ancient
workshops for the construction of canoes and assembly
of fish hooks.
These legends of Huahine can come to life with
one of the famous local expert guides who will share
ancient tales and stories about their unique island
life.
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