1. The Central Platform (Te Pahu)
* Purpose: The most sacred area, where rituals and ceremonies are performed. It houses the sacred objects (tiki, gods, etc.) of the marae.
* Structure: A rectangular raised platform made of stone, wood, or earth.
2. The Courtyard (Te Atua)
* Purpose: The area surrounding the platform, used for gatherings, meetings, and public events.
* Structure: Often paved with stones or shells.
3. The Walls (Te Pare)
* Purpose: Surrounding the courtyard, offering both physical and symbolic boundaries.
* Structure: Built with stone, wood, or coral, often with carvings and embellishments.
4. The Entrance (Te Tumu)
* Purpose: The gateway to the sacred space.
* Structure: Could be a specific doorway, a marked area, or a set of stones.
5. The Altar (Te Atua)
* Purpose: A specific area within the platform used for offerings and rituals.
* Structure: Often a raised platform or a carved stone.
6. The House of Meeting (Whare Tūpuna)
* Purpose: A structure used for meetings, ceremonies, and housing sacred objects.
* Structure: Located near the platform, built with wood and thatch.
7. The Cookhouse (Whare Kai)
* Purpose: Used for food preparation during ceremonies.
* Structure: Often located outside the courtyard, a simple structure.
8. The Burial Ground (Te Urupa)
* Purpose: A dedicated area for burying important ancestors.
* Structure: Located near the marae, sometimes marked by stones or trees.
9. The Other Structures (Various)
* Purpose: Depending on the marae, other structures could exist, like sleeping houses, workshops, or places for specific rituals.
Key Points:
* Marae designs vary across different Polynesian cultures, but these core components are generally found.
* The layout and specific features of a marae have deep cultural and spiritual significance, reflecting the beliefs and practices of the community.
* The marae is a place of great power and reverence, and its care and maintenance are vital to the well-being of the community.
It's essential to remember that these are general descriptions, and each marae is unique.