This island represents the main posts of the "Great House" and the first part to be established by the Gods during the creation of the Land of Men. Ua Pou is proud of its wonderful setting consisting of a central range of basalt peaks in the shape of sugarloaves overlooking the sheltered bay where Hakahau, its main village, is to be found. An island with deeply rooted traditions, it maintains a number of archeological sites and is well known for the inherent artistic quality of its wood carvings, tattoos and its musicians and dance artists. From this cultural dynamism was born the Marquesas festival, Matava'a, a bi-annual event amongst Marquesans and a real meeting ground for artistic talent.