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Ahuena Heiau
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PHOTOS |
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Click on a thumbnail to
see a larger version of the photo |
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OVERVIEW |
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One look at
the Ahuena Heiau is all it takes to feel the
temple’s distinct spiritual value. The heiau
(ancient Hawaiian temple) was built by King
Kamehameha I in the early 1800s, facing the
majestic Kamakahonu Beach, to honor the god
Lona. It served as the king’s personal
refuge and was his home for the last of his
years in power. It also stood witness to
several human sacrifices, a common practice
in the Kamehameha dynasty.
It is believed that Kamehameha I himself
died in this very place. According to
belief, his bones were extracted soon after
he died and taken to Wawahiwa Point up
north, although they have yet to be found.
Even so, the temple is so revered today that
no one can set foot inside-tourists can only
explore the grounds and the exterior
architecture.
Shortly after the king’s death, his son,
Kamehameha II, came into power and set about
destroying the artifacts of old religion. It
was during this time that the people’s
spirituality declined and the temple’s
sanctity came close to its end. It was only
decades later, with the efforts of the
Bishop Museum in Honolulu, that the place
underwent some restoration.
Only one-third of the temple has actually
been restored, so there isn’t much to see
yet. The temple serves mostly as a point of
interest on the Kamakahonu Beach, on which
it is located. The Kamehameha Hotel, a
popular tourist accommodation, is just a
short walk from the temple and provides the
main point of access. |
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DIRECTIONS |
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In
downtown Kona, across from the King
Kamehameha Hotel. |
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