The Language of the Land
Uncover the meaning behind traditional Native Hawaiian place names in the summit region of Kīlauea volcano.
For centuries, Native Hawaiians chronicled intimate oral histories of Kīlauea through chants and stories. Today, this landscape is a constant reminder of those tales and the lessons they carry.
Places Names Around the Summit of Kīlauea
Interact with the map above to learn about ahupuaʻa, traditional land divisions of Hawai'i.
Two historic land divisions, the ahupuaʻa of Kapāpala and the ʻili ʻāina of Keauhou, cross the summit caldera of Kīlauea volcano. The summit region of Kīlauea is culturally important because it is a wao akua (place of elemental deities) and is considered a very sacred place by many Native Hawaiians. Wao akua were traditionally accessed only by those with a clearly stated purpose such as worship of elemental deities, adze manufacture, and the collection of timber or birds. Visiting Kīlauea reminds us of the significant historical events and traditions of Hawaiʻi.
Learning about places and their past can deepen our understanding and appreciation of the world around us. Each place has a unique story, shaped by the people who have called it home, the events that took place, and forever bound to the culture and traditions passed down through generations. What is #YourParkStory, and how has it shaped this place you are visiting?