Marae

By Crusader1307

In New Zealand, among The Maori as well as some Tahitian Cultures, a Marae was a sacred location in which ceremonies were held to honor The Gods and Ancestors. Comparable to the Western Chapel, originally, these areas were out in the open and cleared of trees and fauna. Sometimes a wall of stone was used to mark the perimeters of The Marae. Not all Marae's featured Icons (carvings) of Gods or Heroes. Later, more permanent open facade structures were built of wood. These buildings were three sided. These later structures now featured elaborately carved Totems of various Gods. The Marae is still used by traditional Maori and Tahitian's to practice their Folk Religious Beliefs.