Royal Mausoleum State Monument

Mauna ʻAla, the Royal Mausoleum, is a sacred burial place for Hawaiian monarchs, their relatives and associates in Nuʻuanu Valley, Honolulu. The grounds offer a quiet way to learn about the royal family and its contributions to life in Hawaiʻi, including churches, schools, hospitals, parks and gardens. Queen Emma’s role in establishing medical institutions is one example to explore. A curator may be able to share context about the site and Hawaiian history. Treat the grounds as a place of respect, not simply a tourist attraction.

A resting place for Hawaiʻi’s royal family

Mauna ʻAla is the burial place of Hawaiian monarchs, members of their families and associates. The site is in Nuʻuanu Valley, at 2261 Nuʻuanu Avenue in Honolulu. Its purpose is solemn: people come to honour those laid to rest here and to learn about their place in Hawaiian history.

The grounds are sacred. The curator asks visitors to respect the mana, or spirit, associated with the place. Keep your visit quiet and follow any guidance given on site.

Royal contributions beyond the mausoleum

The monarchs commemorated here supported institutions and public places that served Hawaiʻi’s people. Their legacies include churches and schools, as well as hospitals, parks and gardens.

Queen Emma is associated with the establishment of medical institutions, including The Queen’s Medical Center. Queen Kapiʻolani is linked to Kapiʻolani Regional Park, Queen Kapiʻolani Garden and Kapiʻolani Community College. Learning about these connections can give context to the people buried at Mauna ʻAla and their continuing place in Hawaiʻi’s history.