The “Southern” carving and painting style of totem poles, generally attributed the Wakashan and Coast Salish-speaking peoples of Southern British Columbia, is characterized by an intricate use of colors including green, red, black, white turquoise and yellow. The building of totem poles was a way of preserving the history of local native heritage, as well as aiding in tribal rituals and sacred spirits of the native peoples. Serving as an excellent example of aboriginal art, Victoria features some of the oldest totem poles in the world. Placed in front of the Royal British Columbia Museum, protected from the elements, totem poles can be seen by the harbour, in the heart of downtown Victoria.