Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park

Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
Carol M. Highsmith · Public domain · source
Name	Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
Iucn category	III
Location	Hawaii, United States
Nearest city	Honaunau
Coordinates	19.6233, N, 155.9222, W
Established	1966

Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park is a 322-acre National Historical Park located on the Big Island of Hawaii, in the United States. This site was a place of refuge during the Kamehameha era, and is now a significant cultural and historical site. The park was established in 1966 to preserve the site's natural and cultural resources. It is one of the most important and sacred sites in Hawaiian culture.

History and significance

The site was a place of refuge, or puʻuhonua, during the Kamehameha era, from around 1820 to 1860. During this time, it was a sanctuary for those who had broken kapu, or laws, and was a place where they could seek asylum and avoid execution. The site was also an important center for Hawaiian culture, with many significant temples, or heiau, and other cultural sites.

The park is also significant because it was the site of a major battle in 1819, in which Kamehameha and his forces defeated the Oahu army. This battle marked the end of the ancient Hawaiian system of kapu and the beginning of the Hawaiian Kingdom.

Description of the site

The park is located on the Big Island of Hawaii, near the town of Honaunau. It features a range of natural and cultural resources, including volcanic landscapes, rainforests, and temples. The site includes several significant heiau, or temples, including the Makahiki ceremonial site.

The park is also home to a range of Native Hawaiian flora and fauna, including nene, or Hawaiian goose, and petroglyphs. The site's natural resources include volcanic rock formations, streams, and waterfalls.

Cultural and religious role

The site was an important center for Hawaiian culture and religion, with many significant temples, or heiau. The site was also a place of spiritual significance, with many Native Hawaiian ceremonies and rituals taking place there.

The park is also home to many petroglyphs, or rock carvings, which depict a range of Native Hawaiian cultural and spiritual themes. These petroglyphs are an important part of Hawaiian cultural heritage and provide valuable insights into the history and culture of the islands.

Modern preservation and access

The park was established in 1966 to preserve the site's natural and cultural resources. It is managed by the National Park Service, in partnership with the State of Hawaii and Native Hawaiian communities. The park is open to visitors, who can explore the site's many cultural and natural resources.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the site, which includes many of the park's significant temples, or heiau. The park also offers ranger-led programs and cultural events, which provide insights into the site's history and culture.

Archaeological findings

The park has been the subject of extensive archaeological investigation, which has revealed many significant cultural resources. These include temples, or heiau, petroglyphs, and other Native Hawaiian artifacts.

The park's archaeological resources provide valuable insights into the history and culture of the islands, and have helped to inform the park's preservation and management policies. The park's archaeological resources are an important part of Hawaiian cultural heritage and are protected by federal and state legislation. Category:National Historical Parks of the United States