French Polynesia
French Polynesia
- Capital
- Papeetē
- Population
- 280,904
- Region
- Oceania
- Languages
- French
This territory is home to the world’s only overwater bungalows, a concept first invented on the island of Raiatea in the 1960s to offer guests direct access to the lagoon. It is also one of the rare places on Earth where black pearls are naturally produced by the Pinctada margaritifera oyster. The local culture places high importance on 'Mana,' a spiritual force believed to reside in all living things and the surrounding landscape.
Currency
The official currency is the CFP Franc, which uses the ISO code XPF. Originally established in 1945 following the Bretton Woods Conference, the 'CFP' acronym initially stood for Colonies Françaises du Pacifique. Today, its value is uniquely pegged to the Euro, providing fixed exchange rate stability for the local economy.
Flag symbolism
The flag features horizontal stripes of red and white, which are traditional colors used in Tahitian heraldry and royal history. In the center sits a circular emblem depicting a double-hulled outrigger canoe, symbolizing the seafaring traditions and courage of the ancestors who settled the islands. The five figures standing on the canoe represent the five major archipelagos that make up the territory, unified under one banner.
Emblem history
The central seal features a red outrigger canoe set against a golden background of radiating sunbeams, which represents life and the tropical energy of the region. Below the canoe, blue stylized waves symbolize the Pacific Ocean as a primary source of sustenance and connection between the distant islands. This design was officially adopted in 1984 as part of the territory's move toward greater internal autonomy while maintaining its relationship with France.