A short walk from Poipu Beach on the south shore of Kauai, the ancient Hawaiian village of Kaneiolouma recently unveiled a collection of upgrades aimed at improving access and understanding of the important cultural site.
Work recently wrapped up on a new public viewing platform overlooking the ancient village that now features five new interpretative signs, discussing the history of the site's restoration project, Kauai's Hawaiian heritage and broader Polynesian history.
Home today to ruins of religious and habitation structures dating to the mid 1400s, the Kaneiolouma complex also contains a sacred spring and what remains of a rare sporting arena. Officials from Hui Malama O Kaneiolouma, the nonprofit entrusted with the site's stewardship and restoration, are also planning a cultural and educational center at the location.
"This particular place, Kaneiolouma, is a very special, spiritual and sacred place here on our island," Kauai mayor Bernard Carvalho said in a statement. "This place was once hidden, and now it's coming to life."