The Haleki’i-Pihana Heiau are two significant ancient Hawaiian temples located in Wailuku, Maui. Hawaiians built these sacred worship sites in the 13th century as important religious and political centers for the Hawaiian people, as Charles and Genie recently discovered on an historical tour of central Maui. www.tonysmaui.com . Today, the heiau are off the beaten path, but well worth a walk up to the top.
Hawaiians gathered at the Haleki’i Heiau, which means “House of Images,” for religious ceremonies and rituals. They heard priests communicate with the gods and perform sacred rites. Priests conducted marriages, and prayed for expectant mothers such as when Queen Keopuolani, wife of Kamehameha the Great, was born here. The heiau was part of the royal court of Kahekili, Maui’s last ruling chief.
The Pihana Heiau, was a community gathering place for religious and political activities. It was part of the royal court of Kahekili, Maui’s last ruling chief. The chiefs, kahuna priests and district managers made important decisions here. People bought their offerings to the gods to this heiau to ensure prosperity and protection for the community. Pihana Heiau was dedicated to Ku, the Hawaiian god of war. This heiau was a luakini, a type of heiau used for war-related rituals and human sacrifices to honor Ku and seek his favor in battles. The last human sacrifice at Pihana Heiau on Maui occurred after Kamehameha’s victory at the battle of ʻIao in 1790.
Together, these heiau provide a glimpse into the spiritual places and cultural practices of ancient Hawaiians. They are now preserved as historical sites, open to the public, allowing visitors such as Charles and Genie to learn about and appreciate as part of the rich heritage of Hawaii.
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