The Cathédrale de l’Immaculée Conception is a colourful 19th-century church near the waterfront in French Polynesia’s capital city, Papeete. It is the oldest Catholic church on the island and a surviving example of 19th-century French Colonial architecture. Admire its red steeple and yellow façade with maroon arched windows. Visit this landmark in a spacious plaza in the historic centre of town.
Admire the colourful façade of the church, which reveals the island’s French colonial past. The cathedral, which is a mixture of Colonial and Gothic styles, dates back to 1844. See the colourful stained-glass windows that depict local landmarks and the Tahiti countryside.
Examine the dramatic paintings of the crucifixion on the walls inside the church. Inside the spacious church, the atmosphere is calm and the temperature is cool, providing a pleasant respite from the outside heat. The church is decorated with a statue of Christ and an intricate mosaic mural. Gaze up at the majestic chandeliers bedecked with candles and see the altar covered in brightly hued flowers.
Note the cathedral’s blend of European and Polynesian styles, which is encapsulated in the woodcarving of Mary and Jesus carrying breadfruit. Attend one of the services and listen to the passionate hymns in the large hall.
The site is often referred to as Notre Dame Church, in reference to the famous Parisian landmark. Marvel at the many traumas the church has withstood, including a tidal wave in 1906, a bombardment by German battleships in 1914 and the riots of 1987. The cathedral was restored several times during the 20th century. The church remains in use and many local residents are baptized here.
The Cathédrale de l’Immaculée Conception sits near the northwest coast of the island of Tahiti. You can find the Black Pearl Museum and Parc Bougainville in close proximity to the cathedral. It is a 5-minute walk south from the Maritime Station, which receives passengers travelling from nearby islands.
