Ahu'ena Heiau was the capital of the kingdom of Hawai'i under Kamehameha the Great. It is a national historical landmark.

Upon this great stone paepae (platform) stood Ahu’ena Heiau, rededicated by Kamehameha as a Hale O Lono (House Of Lono).

Hale Mana (house of spiritual power) was a place for prayer. 

Hale Pahu (house of the drum) sheltered the great ceremonial drum of the temple. The structure is thatched with hala (pandanus) leaves.

The Lana Nuʻu Mamao is often referred to as the oracle tower.

Ki’i Akua (temple gods) symbolized the presence of helpful gods who were ancestral to the worshipers. To visiting Europeans, Kamehameha once said: “These are my gods, whom I worship. Whether I do right or wrong [by European definition] I do not know. But I follow my faith which cannot be wicked, as it commands me never to do wrong.” Carved with great virtuosity, ki’i akua of the distinctive Kona style are regarded as among the finest of all Polynesian art forms. The tallest figure crowned with an image of a golden plover, was Koleamoku, a god of healing.

Lele are where hoʻokupu (offerings) were presented to the gods.

 
Hale Nana Mahina‘ai, literally “house to see the gardens," was Kamehameha’s retreat.

Ahu`ena Heiau, King Kamehameha the Great's personal Heiau, is located at Kamakahonu, Kailua-Kona.  It was originally a luakini for Ku and was restored and rededicated by Kamehameha to Lono as a Hale O Lono.  David Kahelemauna Roy, Jr. led the restoration of Ahu`ena Heiau which began in 1975.  Kulana Huli Honua is the non-profit that continues his work to maintain the dignity of Ahu`ena Heiau and Kamakahonu. 

Download  the Fact Sheet About Kamakahonu and Ahu'ena Heiau (PDF) >>