Hanging around Graveyards
may not be your thing, but if you are in Rarotonga
for 1st November, you musn't miss Turama, All Souls Day
Held in the evening, it is a celebration of the departed. It’s a Ancient
Catholic Tradition, but I believe other religions participate
The Rarotongans spend days, decorating the graves, which are
prominent all over the Island.
I have never seen so many different types and brilliant
colours of plastic and silk flowers. They are sensational
There are Mass Grave Yards, but it also common to bury your
loved ones on your land.
There are many Mausoleums, dotted around amongst the houses.
There are many Mausoleums, dotted around amongst the houses.
At 6pm, there is a service at the Cathedral, then the priest takes Holy Water he has blessed and sprinkles on the graves. This takes place at Panama, the Graveyard close to the Airport
We watched these people construct their tribute to their family
They finished it off with garlands of Tiare, Stunning
On the evening there are ceremonies and people lay fresh
flowers and light candles
The families gather, chat to the departed and reminisce,
many happy memories
It is very beautiful
We drove around the Island
and took some shots of Graves on Private Property
In stark contrast to the colour, we found this old graveyard just close to where we are staying
Until recently it was ramshackle but caring folk have reconstructed it.
So white. I love it also
Until recently it was ramshackle but caring folk have reconstructed it.
So white. I love it also
Our favourite Grave. We Love You Dad in huge letters with Dad’s War Helmet, jauntily hanging off the side of the tombstone.
Obviously not religious. Not one flower for Dad
I thought this was a little sad
White crosses, very few flowers, but an empty bottle, but on the bright side, maybe Uncle's favourite tipple
