Ra'iātea

Ra'iātea is second only to Tahiti in both size and population. However, it's importance to all of Polynesia is historical.
For many, Ra'iātea is a sacred island. It's original name was Havai'i which is related to the names of other Polynesian islands. It is in the center of the of called Polynesian triangle, with Hawaii, New Zealand and Easter Island at corners. This is apparent in the 1st picture. The octopus is a symbol of the interconnectedness of the Polynesian people. You will also see that Ra'iātea (using the original name Havai'i) is at the center where the body of the octopus is shown and from which all else emanates. And, Ra'iātea is believed to be where Polynesian culture began and from where colonization of the many islands began.
As a sacred place, it isn't surprising that the main marae of all Polynesia are here. Marae Taputapuatea, in the 2nd picture, is the largest marae and the center of religious and cultural life of Polynesia. It dates to before 1000 CE. People of Polynesia still gather here for ceremonies. The next 3 pictures are of more of the marae that have been built nearby over the centuries. As Polynesian culture spread, stones from Marae Taputaputea were carried to and incorporated in many marae elsewhere.
The last 2 pictures are of the town and waterfront on the island.Baca lagi