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Iliiliopae
Heiau
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"Pebbles of Chief Pae" or "Temple of
the Shrimp"
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Highway 450
In early times, Molokai was known throughout the
islands for its religious mastery and sorcery. Iliiliopae
Heiau was the "school" for sorcerers - a very powerful
temple known for human sacrifice. This site, built
in the 13th Century, is the second largest and possibly
the oldest religious site in Hawaii with a stone
platform measuring 320 x 120 feet.
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What remains today is probably only
a small portion of the original structure which could
clearly be seen by canoes approaching from Maui making
it a very formidable site.The stones used to build
this heiau were passed hand to hand in a human chain
for 8 miles over the mountains via the steep Wailua
Trail.
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Thousands of round, water-worn stones
were laid by hand to build this awesome site without
the use of any mortar or modern tools.
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One legend states that the menehune
(small people) were the actual builders of the temple
and they were rewarded with one freshwater shrimp
each. The route of the meneuhune line is now known
as the Wailau Trail.
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Another legend states that Kamalo,
a kahuna (priest), lost 9 sons in sacrifice at this
temple. He sought revenge and so he prayed to his
'aumakua (shark god) who sent a flash flood which
washed away the temple priests and most of the heiau.
Historic writings by missionaries in the area attest
to the sorcery and ritual sacrifices which were carried
out at this site.
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Useful Information:
- Located on private land - call for permission
to enter the site (808-558-8132)
- Molokai Horse and Wagon Ride goes to this site
daily
- Wear insect repellent
- Wear good walking shoes and bring water
- No facilities anywhere nearby· On the National
Register of Historic Places
- DO NOT disturb the stones or any offerings left
here - this is a historic and religious site - be
respectful!
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DIRECTIONS:
Take Highway 450 east. Located on the mountain side
of the road around Mile Marker #16. The gate to the
hike is locked. You must obtain permission from the
landowner to enter. It is about a 10-minute hike to
the site from the road. |
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Perfectly flat surface built with
stacked rocks.
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Short walk up this road, then follow the
signs. |
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Entrance to the Heiau from the road
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Click
On Name To View Site Info
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