***About Totem Poles:

*** Totem poles are monumental sculptures carved from large trees by indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast of North America, including British Columbia. These impressive works of art are not merely decorative but serve as significant cultural symbols, often telling stories and legends, commemorating ancestors, and marking important events. Historically, totem poles have been created for a variety of reasons, each intricately crafted to represent familial lineage, social status, and spiritual beliefs. In Vancouver, such poles have also become symbols of the city's cultural diversity and respect for Aboriginal heritage.

Image ID: 37266