On Day 36 of my Project 365, I went to Pu’uhonua o Honaunau, also know as the Place of Refuge. It’s a bit more touristy than I usually enjoy, but that doesn’t mean it wasn’t still beautiful.
There was a self-guided walking tour through replicated structures of the ancient Hawaiians. As the story goes, if you had committed a crime or sin in ancient times, and you could outrun the king’s warriors and get to this sanctuary, you would be safe from execution. Your wrong-doings would be forgiven by the priest and you could safely return to your village.
As I understand it, this is a very special and spiritual place to the native Hawaiians. And I admit, I felt a little bit like I should not be allowed there. It’s now a National Park, and though I have not done the research, I suspect it was opposed by some of the native people.
Regardless, here are a few photos I made while I was there.