Paul Gauguin’s Tomb | Marquesas Islands

Paul Gauguin's Tomb is located in the Calvaire Cemetery in the village of Atuona, on Hiva Oa, in the Marquesas Islands of French Polynesia. The tomb marks the final resting place of the famed French Post-Impressionist painter Paul Gauguin, who spent the last years of his life on Hiva Oa. His tomb is a significant historical and cultural landmark, drawing visitors who come to pay homage to the artist and learn about his life on the island.

Historical Significance

Gauguin's Life in Hiva Oa: Gauguin arrived in Hiva Oa in 1901, seeking a more peaceful and less conventional lifestyle away from the turmoil of his earlier years in Europe. He lived in Atuona for the last part of his life, painting some of his most famous works during this time. Gauguin's decision to move to the Marquesas Islands, particularly Hiva Oa, was largely motivated by his desire to immerse himself in the indigenous culture of the islands and find inspiration in its vibrant colors, landscapes, and people.

Death and Burial: Gauguin died on May 8, 1903, at the age of 54, from complications related to a number of health issues, including syphilis and alcohol-related problems. He was buried in the Calvaire Cemetery in Atuona, a relatively simple and modest grave that contrasts with the fame he would later achieve after his death.

The Tomb and Surroundings

Grave Site: Gauguin's tomb is a modest yet poignant site, marked by a simple stone grave with a plaque bearing his name. The grave is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, offering a serene and peaceful atmosphere that reflects the island's natural beauty. The tomb itself is situated on a gentle hillside with a view of the surrounding area, including the village of Atuona and the distant ocean.

Plaque and Memorial: The plaque on the tomb reads:

• "Paul Gauguin, 1848–1903, a French artist who spent the last years of his life on Hiva Oa, a great figure of modern art." Visitors often leave flowers or tokens at the site in homage to the artist, who has become a symbol of creativity, exploration, and artistic freedom. His work on the island—along with his time spent living in the Marquesas—has become integral to Gauguin’s legacy.

Nearby Attractions: The Paul Gauguin Museum is located nearby in Atuona, where visitors can learn more about his life and works on Hiva Oa. The museum houses reproductions of some of his famous paintings and provides additional insight into his time on the island and the impact it had on his art. The museum also houses personal items from Gauguin’s time on Hiva Oa, offering a more intimate view of his life in the Marquesas.

Visiting the Tomb

Location and Accessibility: The Calvaire Cemetery is situated in Atuona, which is the largest village on Hiva Oa. The tomb is located on a hillside above the village and is easily accessible by foot from the village center. The walk to the tomb takes visitors through the lush landscape of Hiva Oa, providing an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the island.

A Peaceful and Reflective Visit: Many visitors to Gauguin’s tomb find the site to be peaceful and reflective, with its quiet surroundings allowing for contemplation of the artist's life and work. The combination of Gauguin's legacy, the serene environment, and the breathtaking views makes visiting the tomb a unique and meaningful experience for art lovers and history enthusiasts.

Why the Tomb is Important

Paul Gauguin is considered one of the most influential artists of the Post-Impressionist period, and his works have had a lasting impact on the world of modern art. His time spent on Hiva Oa in the Marquesas Islands greatly influenced his artistic style, which became more vibrant and expressive during this period.

Artistic Legacy: Gauguin’s time on Hiva Oa inspired many of his famous works, including “Where Do We Come From? What Are We? Where Are We Going?”, and “The Spirit of the Dead Watching”. His connection to the island's culture and landscape became a key theme in his art, and his legacy as a pioneer of modernism and a symbol of artistic rebellion continues to endure.

Symbol of Artistic Freedom: Gauguin’s decision to leave behind his European life, including his family and the art world’s conventions, to pursue his artistic vision in the remote Marquesas Islands is seen as an embodiment of his desire for personal and artistic freedom. His grave on Hiva Oa is symbolic of this quest and his ultimate retreat into solitude and nature.

Visiting Hiva Oa and Gauguin's Tomb

For travelers to Hiva Oa, a visit to Paul Gauguin’s Tomb is an important cultural and historical experience, as it connects visitors to the island’s rich artistic and indigenous heritage. It is an opportunity to reflect on Gauguin's contributions to modern art, as well as his complex and often controversial legacy. The combination of the tranquil island setting, Gauguin's art, and his final resting place makes Hiva Oa a deeply moving destination for anyone interested in art, history, or the life of one of the most iconic figures in the history of modern painting.