Ali’iolani Hale means “House of Heavenly Kings,” a fitting name for the impressive government building opposite Iolani Palace in downtown Honolulu. Ali’iolani Hale is made from concrete blocks and a coral foundation with a central clock tower, arched entrance, and a larger-than-life gold-leaf statue of Kamehameha the Great. The building was originally designed as a royal palace for King Kamehameha V. When he ordered the construction, however, it was intended as a government building instead of a palace. Completed in 1874, the building was home to the legislature, judiciary department, and…
