Place Jacques Chirac (Jacques Chirac Square), Papeete

Jacques Chirac Square, located in the heart of Papeete on Tahiti's western coast, embodies both community vibrancy and a deep historical narrative. Originally named after the former French president in close alliance with Tahitian leader Gaston Flosse, this semicircular park on Boulevard Pomare is set against Papeete鈥檚 bustling port. Despite some initial controversies around naming the square after a living leader, the place evolved to represent more than just a civic center; it has become a memorial and a statement of political significance, particularly tied to French Polynesia鈥檚 complex nuclear testing history.

The park features lush green landscaping, traditional totems by Tahitian artist Eriki Marchand, and five symbolic stones representing French Polynesia鈥檚 archipelagos. A prominent plaque commemorates victims of nuclear disasters worldwide, including those from Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Every year on July 2, known locally as "The Strange Cloud" day, a public ceremony marks the anniversary of the first nuclear tests conducted in the South Pacific, fostering reflection and remembrance for the victims of these tests. The park鈥檚 two-story underground parking lot, initially planned by Flosse, also contributes to its central location as a convenient and popular meeting place for visitors and locals.

Nearby attractions, such as the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and the Black Pearl Museum, add to the appeal of Jacques Chirac Square, which stands as a site of cultural gatherings, local markets, and performances. The park鈥檚 atmosphere of remembrance and celebration of Tahitian culture makes it both a scenic and meaningful stop in Papeete.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Papeete. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Create Your Own Self-Guided Walk to Visit This Sight

Sight Name: Place Jacques Chirac (Jacques Chirac Square)
Sight Location: Papeete, Tahiti (See walking tours in Papeete)
Sight Type: Park/Outdoor
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Papeete Waterfront Walk

Walking Tours in Papeete, Tahiti

Create Your Own Walk in Papeete

Creating your own self-guided walk in Papeete is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.

Papeete Introduction Walking Tour

The islands of the Pacific were gradually settled by daring sea voyagers in large multiple hulled catamarans (canoes). Tonga and Samoa were reached by 1300 BC. By 500 BC, the Marquesas Islands were known to the navigators. Tahiti was settled between 300 and 800 AD.

Tahiti was divided into clan territories managed by chiefs and under-chiefs. Spanish explorers began arriving in the 16th century.... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.0 Km or 1.9 Miles

Papeete Waterfront Walk

Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia, is renowned for its beautiful natural setting. Still, other than lush green areas and stunning beaches, the city boasts a number of man-made sights well worth checking out. Papeete's Waterfront is a vibrant area bustling with activity and attractions that capture the essence of the island's culture and beauty.

Start your waterfront tour at... view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles

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