On Oahu, there is a famous tourist attraction spot called the Nuuanu Pali Lookout. The lookout is famous for its views. What most people don't know, however, is that the lookout's view is that of a near ancient battlefield.
It was on this battlefield in 1810 where King Kamehameha I fought and defeated the powerful Oahu chiefs. The victory cemented King Kamehameha's right to rule the Islands of Hawaii. It also united the Islands under one empire for the first time after years of conflict.
The uniting of the Hawaiian Islands also made sure that the when western influences did arrive on the Islands that they were not torn apart by different cultures, but instead stayed one common idea.
In honour of King Kamehameha there are 4 commissioned statues across the Hawaiian Islands. The most famous of these statues is the one in Honolulu. It is strategically placed across from Iolani Palace and in front of Aliiolani Hale the current seat of the Hawaiian Supreme Court.
Kamehameha I was a great warrior, diplomat and leader so the setting of the statue in Honolulu is perfect.
The King Kamehameha Statue in Honolulu was sculpted by Thomas Gould of Florence. It is one of the most famous landmarks and most photographed spots on the Island of Oahu. Every year on King Kamehameha Day (June 11th) the statue is draped with leis and ceremonial wreaths in honour of the greatest Hawaiian King.
If you're a watcher of the popular television show, Hawaii Five-O, then you can spot the King Kamehameha Statue during every show in the opening credits.
If you're in the downtown Honolulu area then a trip to the Kamehameha statue is well worth the time. Many tours that start from hotels and Waikiki actually the statue as one of the planned stops to allow visitors to get photos of the famous statue. If you are walking around on your own, without a tour, then incorporating Chinatown and the boutiques and restaurants of the rest of downtown Honolulu is a great idea.
Native Hawaiians give great reverence to King Kamehameha I and the statue that honours him-as well they should. Kamehameha I was the father of the Island Empire that flourished for so many years and that still provides many Hawaiian holidays with rich culture and beautiful landscape that is result of the great king's hard work.
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