Gambier islands were converted to christianity by Father Laval in the first half of the XIXth century. This zelous missionary sent by Roma in 1834 instaured a true theocracy. Traces of his rule are still conspicuous. Notably, with a number churches erected during his time in the islands including the famous Saint-Michel's cathedral, the biggest of Polynesia. All of them were painted with a characteristic white wash. Here, a picture of the Saint-Gabriel church in Taravai.