Bay of Virgins, Protected bay and fjard in Fatu Hiva, French Polynesia.
The bay contains multiple basalt spires rising from both sides of its entrance, creating a natural frame for incoming vessels.
Catholic missionaries modified the original name 'Baie des Verges' to 'Baie des Vierges' upon their arrival to remove references to male anatomy.
Local inhabitants of Hanavave village maintain traditional practices, including the creation of tapa cloth from tree bark and regular music performances.
Access to the bay requires sea transportation, with limited anchorage spots available in the center due to rocky underwater formations.
The surrounding mountains contain numerous fruit trees, providing visitors with fresh citrus fruits directly from local gardens.
Address: Bay of Virgins, French Polynesia
GPS coordinates: -10.46371,-138.67022
Latest update: March 3, 2025 02:19
The Marquesas Islands are characterized by volcanic formations that shape landscapes marked by rocky peaks, ancient calderas, and basalt cliffs. Deep bays like those of Taiohae or the Virgins cut through the coasts, while black sand beaches reflect the archipelago's geological origins. The island interior reveals valleys, waterfalls, and reliefs reaching up to 1200 meters in altitude. Marquesian cultural heritage is evident through preserved archaeological sites in the Taipivai valley, where ceremonial platforms and petroglyphs carved into rock still exist. The Puamau tiki statues, carved from volcanic stone, are among the largest Polynesian sculptures. Museums in Atuona and Ua Huka hold collections that document traditional life, while the Gauguin Cultural Center and the Jacques Brel Space trace the careers of these two artists who spent their final days in the archipelago. The Taiohae Cathedral blends European architecture with local sculpted motifs, illustrating the cultural exchanges that have shaped the islands' history.
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Église Saint-Michel de Hanavave
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Église Saint-Joseph de Makemo
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"Tikis sonrientes" siguiendo las indicaciones.
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Atuona Cemetery
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Centre Jacques Brel
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Observation point Grand Canyon
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Ensemble Tahakia Kamuihei Teiipoka
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Musée communal de Ua Huka
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Teakatau
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