Roy Mata
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Roy Mata was a powerful 13th century Melanesian chief. His elaborate grave, containing the bodies of over 25 members of his retinue, was discovered by French archeologist Jose Garranger in 1967. Garranger was able to locate the grave on Retoka island, part of present day Vanuatu, by analyzing local folklore. According to legend, when Roy Mata conquered the land, his first goal was to unite the tribes. The body of Roy Mata was not buried on his homeland because the locals feared his spirit. Roy Mata was poisoned to death by his brother. To this date, the name Roy Mata is never used.
His name was mentioned in Survivor: Vanuatu by host Jeff Probst telling the story to the final five castaways about his role as a chief.
[edit] References
1. Vanuatu A to Z Retrieved August 25, 2006.
2. Past Worlds: Atlas of Archeology. Edited by Colin Renfrew. Borders Press, 2003.