Puʻukoholā Heiau: Historic Site in Hawaii
Hawaiian Ancient Temple
If you were to take a driving tour around the northern part of the island you will pass the Hawaiian Ancient Temple of Puʻukoholā Heiau which is situated about 100 miles north of our Volcano Bed and Breakfast. Now a National Historic Site it tells a story of Hawaiian history.
A Sacred Temple Built by Hand
Construction on the temple began in 1790, at the orders of Kamehameha I, with the purpose of being a luakini heiau, a sacred space for political and sacrificial purposes.
The temple consists of a massive terraced and walled platform built of mortarless, water-worn lava rocks and boulders. Measuring about 224 by 100 feet, it contained walls on each end and the landward side, with the side toward the sea remaining open. Three narrow steps lead down the hillside to the west enabling the interior to be seen from the sea. The building of this temple consisted of thousands of locals passing rocks and boulders over 20+ miles and was completed in one year.
Foundation of a Nation
King Kamehameha I was one of the most striking and well-known figures in Hawaiian history, who united and lead the islands during a time of great cultural change. While accounts of his heritage vary, many believe him to be born of royal lineage and local legend links his birth to meteorological events thought by Hawaiians to herald the birth of a great chief.
After the passing of his father, Kamehameha was raised in the court of his uncle, Kalaniʻōpuʻu, and received training that included skills in games, warfare, oral history, navigation, and religious ceremonies.
After years of fierce battles and facing neighboring armies, Kamehameha I became King of the Hawaiian Islands and took steps to ensure the islands remained a united realm after his death. He unified the legal system and used the products collected in taxes to promote trade with Europe and the United States. John Young, a former crewmember of the American ship Eleanora, and Isaac Davis, who survived the massacre of the Fair American ship, became trusted advisors to King Kamehameha I and provided advanced weapons and crucial knowledge of military strategy.
Now, monuments stand in places across the Hawaiian archipelago, including a 14-foot statue on the Big Island. It stands near downtown Hilo at the north end of the Wailoa River State Recreation Area and was dedicated in June of 1997.
Walk in the Footsteps of a King
We suggest visiting the area on the way to or from our Big Island bed and breakfast. Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site offers a number of activities, like hiking, whale watching, photography, and various special events throughout the year. A short walk from the parking lot and visitor center is Mau’umae Beach, Spencer Beach park, and a few miles down the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is Hapuna Beach. Each of these beaches is the perfect destination for a picnic or playing in the water.
As with many, if not all, historic sites, being respectful and implementing “Leave No Trace” principles is important. If you’re planning on visiting the historic site, check out the NPS top tips for visiting responsibly.
Stay with us and transport yourself back to the time of kings!