Day 125: Hōkūkano-ʻUalapuʻe Complex, Moloka’i, Hawai’i
📌APIA Every Day (125) - The Hokukano-Ualapue Complex on the Island of Moloka’i, Hawai’i, is an important archaeological and architectural site that provides insight into the cultural and societal structures of ancient Hawaiian society. Located in the District of Kona, the complex includes seven heiaus (traditional places of worship) and two fishponds, Keawanui and Ualapue. These structures highlight the advanced engineering skills, religious practices, and political power structures that developed on Moloka’i. The heiau served various functions, from agricultural worship dedicated to the god Lono to large luakini heiau used for sacrificial rituals that underscored the paramount chief's authority. Iliiliopae Heiau, one of the oldest and largest heiau in the Hawaiian Islands, evolved over time to serve multiple religious functions, reflecting changing practices and political regimes.
The fishponds at Hokukano-Ualapue, such as Keawanui and Ualapue, demonstrate the innovative aquaculture techniques of ancient Hawaiians. Constructed around natural shoreline curvatures, these fishponds included seawalls and sluice gates that allowed fish to enter, feed, and grow, making them easy to harvest. Keawanui Fishpond, built around 1575, is the largest and possibly oldest on Molokai, showing the ali'i's (chiefs') ability to manage and utilize coastal resources effectively. Ualapue Fishpond, known for producing exceptionally fat mullet, was in continuous use until a tsunami in 1960 damaged its structure. These fishponds were not only food sources but also symbols of the ali'i's wealth and right to conspicuous consumption.
The Hokukano-Ualapue Complex is significant for its demonstration of the integrated religious, political, and economic systems of ancient Hawaiian society. The variety of heiau illustrates the complex religious practices, with rituals dedicated to major Hawaiian gods like Lono, Kane, Kanaloa, and Ku, while the fishponds emphasize the ali'i's economic control and social hierarchy. The complex was nominated as a National Historic Landmark in 1988.
LEARN MORE:
National Park Service: Hokukano-Ualapue Complex, HI
NPS Gallery: Hokukano-Ualapue Complex Photos
HistoryPin: Hokukano-Ualapue Complex
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