Iolani Palace | Honolulu

ʻIolani Palace, located in downtown Honolulu on the island of Oahu, is a historic landmark and the only official royal palace in the United States. This grand structure served as the residence of the Hawaiian monarchy and is a symbol of Hawaii's rich history, culture, and sovereignty.

History of ʻIolani Palace

1. Construction:
   • Built between 1879 and 1882 under the reign of King David Kalākaua.
   • Designed in the unique American Florentine architectural style, blending European influences with Hawaiian elements.
   • The palace cost approximately $360,000, a significant sum at the time.
2. Purpose:
   • Served as the official residence and administrative center for King Kalākaua and later his sister, Queen Liliʻuokalani.
3. Significant Events:
   • King Kalākaua’s Reign: Known as the "Merrie Monarch," he used the palace to host grand events showcasing Hawaiian culture and modern advancements.
   • Overthrow of the Monarchy: In 1893, Queen Liliʻuokalani was overthrown by American and European businessmen with support from U.S. forces, marking the end of Hawaii's monarchy.
   • Republic of Hawaii: The palace was repurposed as the capitol building for the provisional government and later the Republic, Territory, and State of Hawaii.

Architecture and Design

• Exterior:
  • Symmetrical structure with decorative features such as verandas, columns, and wrought iron detailing.
  • Set on lush grounds with gardens, stately trees, and a coronation pavilion.
• Interior:
  • Luxurious furnishings, including Hawaiian koa wood, European chandeliers, and imported carpets.
  • The palace featured electricity, indoor plumbing, and a telephone system, making it technologically advanced for its time.
  • Notable rooms:
    • Throne Room: Used for formal ceremonies and receptions, adorned with portraits of Hawaiian royalty.
    • Blue Room: A more informal gathering area for social events.
    • State Dining Room: Hosted state dinners and important meetings.
    • Private Quarters: Living spaces for the royal family.

Restoration and Current Use

• Restoration:
  • After serving as a government building for decades, the palace underwent extensive restoration in the 1970s to return it to its former glory.
  • Many original artifacts were recovered, while replicas were created for missing items.
• ʻIolani Palace Today:
  • Operates as a museum managed by the Friends of ʻIolani Palace.
  • Offers tours that educate visitors about Hawaii’s monarchy and the events leading to its overthrow.

Key Exhibits and Features

1. Artifacts:
   • Personal belongings of the royal family, including Queen Liliʻuokalani’s quilt, created during her imprisonment in the palace after the overthrow.
   • The crown jewels of Hawaii, including King Kalākaua’s coronation regalia.
2. Imprisonment Room:
   • Queen Liliʻuokalani was confined to an upstairs room following the monarchy's overthrow.
   • Visitors can see the room and learn about this pivotal period in Hawaiian history.
3. Hawaiian Flag:
   • The original Hawaiian flag that was lowered in 1893 during the overthrow is displayed, representing the loss of sovereignty.

Visiting ʻIolani Palace

• Location: Downtown Honolulu, near other historical landmarks like the King Kamehameha Statue and Kawaiahaʻo Church.
• Tours:
  • Docent-Led Tours: Guided by knowledgeable staff, offering detailed insights.
  • Self-Guided Audio Tours: Available in multiple languages.
• Hours and Fees:
  • Open Tuesday through Saturday.
  • Admission fees apply, with discounts for kamaʻāina (local residents) and children.
• Tips for Visitors:
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking on historical floors.
  • Photography is allowed in some areas but restricted in others.

Significance

ʻIolani Palace is more than a historical building—it is a testament to the resilience and cultural pride of the Hawaiian people. It serves as a place of education, reflection, and remembrance of Hawaii’s unique history and its journey from an independent kingdom to its current status as the 50th U.S. state.