Petroglyphs
These are roughly engraved drawings in stone that usually hold the likenesses of geometric patterns, human faces, fish, suns, and turtles. These are found all over the islands and are always something to stop and look at.
Tikis
Tikis are a major part of the culture of Tahiti. These stone faced carvings often carry a human likeness and can vary in size from mere inches to over 8 feet tall. While it is assumed that they had a religious function in ancient times, due to the fact that most are found by maraes, they were also carved on paddles and canoes. Some of the best of these tikis are found at Marquesas, on the platform that is named Tohua. It is believed that ceremonies, celebrations, and even dances took place here, along with offerings and even human sacrifices. At this famous platform, you will also find Pae Pae stone platforms that were used to support houses made of vegetal material. These are the only platforms of their kind that have survived throughout the years.
It is believed that somewhere around 1400 – 1450 A.D. Is the time that the first tikis appeared on the islands of Tahiti. Although they originated in Marquesas, it was not long before they had taken over the Polynesian Triangle, constantly changing shape and style. Usually, these tikis are found in statue form, but can also be found on everything from boats, clubs, jewelry, and even on human bones. They were also a favorite decorating piece for ritualistic drums, wooden trays, and tatoos. These tikis were something to be proud of for any part of the Polynesian culture, and people considered them to be representations of the Gods.
A normal tiki is usually a male figure, that is stocky and reassuring, with his legs folded underneath him and his arms at his sides, his head is always up and facing forward with no notible neck.